



Book_— 



HISTORY 



OF 



GLOUCESTER. 



The new History of the City of Gloucester, just pub- 
iished, contains an immense fund of useful, varied, and interesting 
; information, and displays in a strong degree that spirit of inquiry 
and research for which its indefatigable author, Mr. Counsel, is so 
' celebrated. As it forms a most valuable addition to our local pub- 
; lications, we anticipate it will become a work of authority, and will 
; assuredly recommend itself to all who take an interest in our an- 
! cient city.— Gloucester Journal, Oct. 3, 1829. 



Wji? 



Ij'H'jl i|T|i|| lj< 



[\V. BULGIN, PRINTER, BRISTOL.] 



THE 

HISTORY AND DESCRIPTION 

OF THE 

FROM THE EARLIEST PERIOD 

TO THE PRESENT TIME; 

with an account of 

st. peter's abbey, the cathedral, churches, and other religious 
houses ; public buildings and charitable INSTITUTIONS ', THE 

SALINE CHALYBEATE SPA, WITH AN ANALYSIS OF THE WATERS 

AND THEIR MEDICINAL PROPERTIES ; A DESCRIPTION OF 

THE ANTIQUITIES THAT HAVE AT DIFFERENT 

TIMES BEEN FOUND IN THAT CITY AND 

NEIGHBOURHOOD J 

THE ORIGIN AND PRESENT STATE OF THE 

port of 0lomt&Uv; 

THE GLOUCESTER AND BERKELEY CANAL, 

And an Account of the Duties payable thereon, fyc* 



DEDICATED, BY PERMISSION, TO 

HIS GRACE THE DUKE OF BEAUFORT, 

Lord Lieutenant of the County, fyc, #r. 



By G. W. COUNSEL. 



GLOUCESTER: 
PRINTED TOR AND SOLD BY J. BULGIN, 5, WESTGATE-STREET ; 

HURST, CHANCE, AND CO. ST. PAUL'S CHURCHYARD, LONDON ; 

THE BOOKSELLERS IN CHELTENHAM; AND 

W. i,U~GI^, BRICTOL. 

•&29. 



•ox 



TO 

THE MOST NOBLE 

HENRY CHARLES SOMERSET, 

DUKE OF BEAUFORT* 

MARQUIS OF WORCESTER, 

EARL OF GLAMORGAN, LORD LIEUTENANT, 

LORD HERBERT 
OF CHEPSTOW, RAGLAND, AND GOWER, 

AND 

CUSTOS ROTULORUM OF THE COUNTIES OF 

GLOUCESTER, MONMOUTH, AND BRECON, 

COLONEL OF THE MONMOUTHSHIRE MILITIA, 

CONSTABLE OF ST. BRIAVEL'S CASTLE, AND 

WARDER OF THE FOREST OF DEAN, 

K. G. & D. C. L. ; 

The following Work is, by His Graces Permission, 

Very respectfully Dedicated. 



The Publisher avails himself of this 
opportunity of expressing his grateful acknowledg- 
ments to George Worrall Counsel, Esquire; 
for having 9 at his particular request, composed the 
following description of the City of Gloucester ; 
and far having gratuitously presented him with the 
copyright of the same. 

Gloucester, Sept. 21tf, 1829. 



PREFACE. 



The learned Fosbroke has observed, in his 
elaborate History of the City of Gloucester, that, 
" in undertaking a new work, where one preceding 
exists, it is a matter of course that deficiencies 
should be the leading object.' 5 

In the present publication an attempt has been 
made to give a description of the antiquities which 
have at different times been discovered in this city 
and neighbourhood, and an account of the various 
alterations and improvements which have taken 
place since the Histories of Mr. Fosbroke and Mr. 
Rudge were written. 



X. 

The Archdeacon, in the preface to his History, 
acknowledges that " the principal part of his ma- 
terials is derived from the works of Atkins and 
Rudder, and that he waves all pretensions to 
originality." 

The Author has transcribed from Mr. Rudge's 
book whatever suited his purpose, and has endea- 
voured to compress within a small compass all the 
historical, descriptive, and statistical details, which 
residents of the city and neighbourhood might wish 
to possess, and visitors to consult. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

Ancient State of Gloucester^ 1 



Under the Romans 
Saxons 



After the Normans . 

Earls , 

Dukes 

Castle and Gates^ 

Bridges~~*~~ 



General Description 68 

Abbey of St. Peter ™ 74 

The Cathedral ™~ 89 

The Choir „^™„ 97 

The Tower ™v™„117 

The Bishop's Palace 118 

Monuments in Cathedral ^^v.119 
College Green „~~~~<~~~~v~136 
Parish Churches and Reli- 
gious Houses^wv^^w^^v^^lS? 

Dissenting Meeting ditto 161 

Public Buildings ^^^^^^ 169 

Booth and Shire Hall ib. 

City and County Gaol,^^^*, 172 





PAGE 


The Banks ~~v~~v 


*, 173 


Infirmary^^wv^^^wvw^ww^ 


«3 176 


Lunatic Asylum ^~^~^. 


mm 177 


Magdalen ditto ^~^*„r*~~. 


~ 17S 


National School, &c. ,vw*~, 


-*, 179 


Gas Lights ~~v~~w~~~~v~~ 


™ 181 


Triennial Music Meetings 


™ 183 



Saline Chalybeate Spa^^^, 186 
Improvements of the City,„ 190 
Kingsholm ^^^^^w^**^* 193 

Antiquities ,»»^w 196 

Travelling 209 



Abstract of present Charter 210 
Manufactories, Trade, and 
Commerce ^^w^w^vw^vwv, 213 

Bell Foundry 217 

Port of Gloucester, 220 

Officers of the Port ™~ 234 



Gloucester and Berkeley 
Canal ^_ 236 



Tonnage Rates 



239 



AppenUlX«vvvvvvY**w*v*vwwvY>*><vwv» dntl 



ORIGIN, 
ETYMOLOGY, AND ANCIENT STATE 

OF 

GLOUCESTER. 



CxLOUCESTER is unquestionably a place of great anti- 
quity, and was probably a station or settlement of the 
Britons, long before the commencement of the Christian 
asra. Caer Glow is mentioned by Alfred of Beverley as 
one of the twenty-eight cities built by the Britons, previous 
to the Roman invasion. 

The rude inhabitants of those days indeed had nothing 
among them corresponding to our ideas of a city or town, 
consisting of a number of contiguous houses, disposed in 
regular streets, lanes, and courts. Their dwellings were 
usually scattered about the country, or irregularly placet! 
on some spot where the conveniencies of water, wood, pas- 
ture, or hunting were most favourably combined. Tacitus 
cle moribus Gallorum, c. 16, &c. These circumstances, con- 
nected with the consideration of its being the lowest place 
on the river where a safe and convenient passage could be 
made to the western parts of the island, seem to offer a 
probable reason why it was first selected, and afterwards 
formed into a large settlement, when the alarm of the 



Z ANCIENT STATE 

Roman invasion, under Caesar, compelled the natives to act 
with united energy for mutual protection and support. 

Caer Glow, the ancient name, is confessedly British, 
and has been supposed to mean the Fair City. Etymolo- 
gists, however, are not agreed in allowing the appropriation 
of this distinguishing epithet, and have therefore endeavoured 
to explain the name in different ways. Varunnius says, that 
the Emperor Claudius, having married his daughter Genu- 
issa to King Arviragns, commanded the town and castle 
to be built after his own name. Hence Claudia, Claudioce stria, 
Claudiana civitas, Claudia cestriensis civitas, Claudiocestre, Clan- 
cestre, &c. Some time after, it is said, that the name was a 
little altered in compliment to Gloius, a supposed son of 
Claudius, and governor of Demetia, a part of South Wales. 
Robert of Gloucester, however, supposes this alteration to 
have taken place before the time of Claudius, when, to assi- 
milate the name to Gloius, Claucestre was changed to Glou- 
cestre. Ninius conjectures that there were three brothers, 
the sons of Gloius, great-grandfather to King Vortigern, 
who built the town, and called it after their father's name. 

Camden inclines to the same opinion of its being derived 
from Gloius ; only that he finds Glevum mentioned long 
before by Antoninus : as Gleaucester came from Glevum, so 
Glevum by analogy came from Caer Gloui. Gough calls it 
the city of the pure stream, from the British Caer gloyii Us. 

The editor of the Beauties of England, asserts, that Caer 
Gloew, signifies, the Fortress of Gloew, who, from what 
little can be collected concerning him, lived at the com- 
mencement of the Roman period of British history, and was- 
Prince of the country of which this city was the capital : in 
ancient pedigree books, he is styled Gloeiv Gwlad Lydan; 
or Gloew, Lord of the broad region. 

Others have conjectured, that when Britain was divided 



OF GLOUCESTER, 3 

into five parts, this, which was the principal town, took its 
appellation from Fhvia Ccesariensis, the name of the divi- 
sion ; and that Flavius in the British language, has the 
same sound as Glaiti> which might easily pass into Gloul 

A modern topographer has proposed to derive the name 
from glo, the original British word for coaly that is, the city 
of coaly and observes, that coals were ever a marketable 
commodity. This etymology is liable to great objections; 
for even if it were allowed, that the use of pit-coal was 
known among the early British, yet it can hardly be sup- 
posed that a place, situate at least twelve miles from the 
nearest coal-pit in the Forest of Dean, should receive its 
name from the supply of an article not necessary in those 
days, and therefore little valued, while the natural and 
extensive forests of the country produced abundance of fuel, 
nearer home, and with little trouble. 

Of these different opinions, the reader will chuse that 
which appears to him most probable, but the historian, who 
receives with caution the circumstances mentioned by 
British writers of early periods, will still adhere to the com- 
mon etymon of Caer Glou, or the bright city, till another 
more probable shall be discovered, though he is unable to 
assign a substantial reason why this station or settlement 
should, at so remote a period, have been distinguished by 
so honourable a title. 

There are almost as many opinions about the orthography 
as the etymology of this city. The fashion of writing " Glo- 
cester" has prevailed but a few years, but whether this or 
" Gloucester" be most agreeable to ancient usage, will ap- 
pear from the following observations. In the Saxon Chroni- 
cle it is variously written, Glewatircester, Gleaw-ceastre, 
Glew-ceastre, and Glowe-ceatfre. On the seal of the Con- 
stable Milo, Gloecestria. Walter de Frowcester, in the 14th 



4 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

century, uniformly writes, Gloucesiria and Gloucestriensis m 
the records of the Abbey. In Dorney's Diurnal Account, 
and Corbett's History of the Siege, both published during 
the usurpation, the same appellation is always used. In 
Domesday-book, all the charters, and public instruments to 
the present time, it is the same. The weekly journal, which 
began to be published in 1722, was styled, The Gloucester 
Journal, and it was not till several years after, that the editor 
altered the mode of spelling. An almost infinite number of 
testimonies might be adduced to the same purpose, if it were 
necessary, but as the subject is interesting perhaps only 
in the estimation of an antiquary, it may be deemed tedious 
to lengthen the investigation. — Rudge. 



UNDER THE ROMANS. 

About the year 44, of the Christian sera, it is conjectured, 
that the Romans had penetrated as far as Caer Glow, under 
the victorious conduct of Plautius. This general having, in 
various battles, defeated the Britons, and possessed himself 
of such advantages as seemed to secure their total subjection, 
sent a request to the Emperor Claudius, that he would, in 
person, reap the glory of putting an end to the war. On 
his arrival he found little opposition, and easily pushed his 
conquest into the interior parts of the island. His great 
moderation and kindness to the conquered natives, while 
among them, raised him to so high a degree of estimation, 
that they erected a temple to his honour, and worshipped 
him as a god. 

The Romans finding here a settlement of the natives, pro- 
tected and improved it sufficiently to lay the foundation of 



UNDER THE ROMANS. 5 

that consequence, which at no subsequent period has been 
entirely lost. This wise and politic people, indeed, carried 
with their victorious arms the arts and comforts of social 
life, and from the peaceable disposition, which characterised 
the inhabitants of these parts, it may be presumed that they 
profited by the superior attainments of their new masters. 
Glevum, however, as the Romans called it, was at this time 
a garrison, or military station, designed to check the incur- 
sions of the Silures, who inhabited on the western side of 
the Severn, and being brave and powerful, not only resisted 
all the efforts of the invaders with success, but were ready 
to seize every opportunity of harrassing them in their turn. 
Being thus a settlement of the Roman garrison, it became 
more numerous, and obtained the privileges of a colony: 
then the name of Glow, by adopting a Latin termination, 
was changed to Glevum: thus much appears from an in- 
scription on a monumental stone found some years since in 
a wall at Bath, near the Northgate. — Dec. Colone Glev. 
vixt. an. lxxxovi. This was first noticed by Camden, and 
was mentioned by Gibson and Horsely as remaining in their 
days, though now lost. Gale supposes this Decurio to have 
died at Bath, whither he had gone either for the recovery of 
his own health or the refreshment of his forces; Horsely 
imagines him to have been rather a senator in the colony, than 
a commander of ten horse in the army. It is said by Atkyns, 
that in the time of the Romans, the colony was governed by 
a consul. 

That this was a Roman station, of considerable conse- 
quence, though perhaps inferior to Cirencester, is indisput- 
ably proved by the various coins, fragments of pottery, 
military and domestic utensils, and pavements, which have 
been found. Among the former are burial urns, coffins of 
lead and stone, pieces of amphorae, a small brass lamp, an 



6 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

iron hatchet, a brass patera with a handle, a small ornamental 
bell, part of a pair of brass compasses, several brass beads, 
and a statera or Roman balance of the same metal. Some 
of these are now in the possession of Samuel Lysons, Esq., 
and all have been described in different parts of the Arch- 



Opinions, however, diiFer about the exact situation of 
Glevum; though from the following considerations it may 
probably be inferred, that the present plan of Gloucester 
nearly corresponds with what it was in the time of the 
Romans. In the four principal streets, some remains have 
been discovered of Roman houses and buildings. In the 
cellar belonging to the master's house of Crypt school, is 
a piece of tesselated pavement, but whether it was there 
first discovered, or removed to it from some other place, 
is not known : but that such kind of flooring does exist in 
the Southgate-street, is proved by the discovery lately made 
of some in a house adjoining to the Ram Inn, in the digging 
of a well. 

On the south side of the Westgate-street, at a house 
then in the occupation of Mr. Parker, surgeon, in opening 
the ground for the same purpose as the preceding, stone 
steps were found, as if leading from the ground floor to an 
upper apartment, with part of the shaft of a broken Doric 
column, unquestionably Roman. In the Northgate-street, 
three or four years since, when improvements were making 
in the house of T. Mee, Esq. formerly called the Black 
Spread Eagle, a tesselated pavement was dug up, formed of 
dies in the usual way, but destroyed by the ignorance of the 
workmen. — Rudge. 

In the year 1806, as the workmen were employed in dig- 
ging the foundation for the new Blue-coat Hospital, in this 
city, they discovered, about six feet below the surface of the 



UNDER THE ROMANS. 7 

earth, the remains of a very curious tesselated Roman pave- 
ment, running in a parallel direction with the street, and 
extending from east to west 30 feet, and from north to south 
20 feet. It is divided into compartments, enriched with a 
great variety of scrolls, frets, and other architectural orna- 
ments ; having a wreathed or braided border, together with 
different figures of fish. The colours are white, red, bluish 
grey, and pale and dark brown. The tesserce are mostly 
cubes of different sizes, from one half to three-quarters of an 
inch : some are triangular, and of various other shapes. The 
cement on which the pavement is laid is about an inch thick, 
and appears to be composed of sand, pounded brick, and 
lime, forming together a very hard substance. The inster- 
stices are filled up with cement so hard, that it is even more 
difficult to break than the tesserce themselves. The white 
and pale brown tesserce appear to be of a hard calcareous 
stone, and bear a good polish : the red are of a fine sort of 
brick : the bluish grey are of a hard argillaceous stone, found 
in many parts of Gloucestershire, and called blue lyas : and 
the dark brown appear to be of the granite found at St. Vin- 
cent's Rock, near Bristol. A drawing has been made of a 
part of this curious and interesting piece of antiquity, which 
has probably existed for upwards of 17 centuries ; but we 
much regret that proper directions were not given for the 
whole to be carefully taken up and preserved, as no mean 
record of the historical importance of the place. The re- 
mains of the pattern exhibit fishes and serpents in a ring ; 
the guilloche, always occurring in these pavements, and the 
customary fret. 

Several coins of the Emperor Claudius have been found. 

A considerable relic of tesselated pavement exists in what 
is at present the cellar of the house attached to St. Mary de 
Crypt School : its depth from the surface of the street is 
about the same as that found in the Easteate-street, 



8 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

The discovery of these pavements must place beyond a 
shadow of doubt the disputed fact of Gloucester having been 
a considerable Roman station. When the Romans had con- 
quered a great part of this island in their second expedition, 
by Aulus Plautius the Praetor, under the Emperor Claudius, 
about the forty-fifth year of the Christian sera, they stationed 
a colony at Gloucester, as the most convenient situation for 
the curbing of the Silures. It was called Colonia Glevum, 
as appears by an acient inscription to be seen on a stone 
near the North-gate, at Bath. The town was, at different 
times, enlarged by the Roman Emperors, as they had oc- 
casion to employ more forces. It is said to have been large 
and populous when the Consul of it was summoned, together 
with other great persons, to attend King Arthur's Court, to 
solemnize his coronation. 

Tesselated Pavement. (Pavimentum Tesselatum.) — A 
rich pavement of Mosaic work, made of curious small square 
marbles, bricks, or tiles, called tesserce, from the form of 
dies. Tesselated pavements were much used in the tents of 
the Roman Generals. Tessera, in Roman antiquity, denoted, 
in its primary sense, a cube or die, so called from the Greek 
word tessera, (four) respect being had to its number of sides, 
distinct from its two horizontal planes above and below. 
The church of St. Mark, at Venice, is entirely floored with 
Mosaic work. The mortar of the ancients was of such pro- 
digious hardness, that Vitruyius tells us, the pieces of plaster 
falling from old walls served to make tables. 

To these evidences it might be added, that within the last 
six years, in the Northgate and Southgate-streets, foot pave- 
ments, running parallel with the houses, have been found, at 
about the distance of seven or eight feet under ground 
(which is also the general depth of the tesselated floors). 
These were supported by timber piles, and about four or five 
feet wide. 



UNDER THE ROMANS. V 

It cannot then be doubted but that Glevum stood, in part 
at least, on the present site of Gloucester, but how far it 
extended, can only be conjectured. The opinion of some, 
that the Kingsholm was within its compass, is supported by 
the coins and other antiquities which have been found there, 
and the tradition that this was the direction of the Irmin- 
street. It is satisfactorily traced from Cirencester to the 
place where the turnpike-gate stands, half a mile from the 
city; and here is supposed to have deviated to the north- 
west, and to have continued in the direction of a lane to the 
Kingsholm, then crossing the Tewkesbury-road, a little north 
of the turnpike-gate, to have proceeded to an old channel of 
the Severn (now filled up, but plainly to be traced). Of the 
latter part of this route no vestiges remain, and in truth, 
if this was the line of the Roman road, it will be difficult to 
determine how the communication was maintained with the 
western side of the Severn, through swampy and marshy 
grounds, which must have been the state of those meadows 
in the time of the Romans, since so late as the great Rebel- 
lion they are called marshes. The more probable course of 
the road seems to be from the turnpike-gate through the 
town to the Westgate bridge. In those days, indeed, there 
were no bridges over the Severn, but there is no difficulty 
in supposing that bridges were soon built or boat ferries 
established under the improving hands of the Romans. 

It is to be observed, that it was the custom of the Ro- 
mans to bury without the mcenia or boundaries of the town; 
therefore, if the vast number of bodies dug up at the Kings- 
holm, were Roman, it is probable that Glevum did not ex- 
tend so far. The practice, indeed, of burying in towns did 
not commence till about 750, so that it might from hence be 
inferred, that this was the common place of sepulture for 
the town for two centuries after the Romans had ceased to 
be its inhabitants. — Radge. a 2 



10 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 



UNDER THE SAXONS. 



The Romans, soon after the commencement of the fifth 
century, finding that all their exertions were necessary to 
protect the country immediately around the capital, withdrew 
their troops from Britain, and left the inhabitants, who were 
just beginning to taste the pleasures of repose, in a wretched 
and defenceless state ; for it had been the uniform policy of 
the conquerors to enlist the flower of the British youth into 
their armies, and disperse them in the other provinces of the 
empire. The last legion left the island about 426 or 427. 

From this period the sufferings of the islanders were great, 
from civil contentions, and the irruptions of the Scots and 
Picts ; and the Saxons were invited to assist in their deli- 
verance. The auxiliary troops were put in possession of the 
isle of Thanet, and paid by the Britons : the first body ar- 
rived in 449. Gloucester does not appear to have been 
much concerned in the disputes which followed this unfor- 
tunate alliance, till the year 577, when Commail, Condidan, 
and Farinmail, three British Princes, were defeated by Ce- 
aulin, the Saxon King of Wessex, and his brother Cutha or 
Cuthwin, at Dyrham, and the taking of Bath, Gloucester, 
and Cirencester, was the consequence of their victory. In 
584, the conquest was completed by Crida, an adventurer of 
the same nation, and of the race of Woden ; and the Britons, 
unable to defend themselves against these new invaders, re- 
tired into Cambria, beyond the Severn, leaving the empire 
of Britain wholly to the Saxons. 



UNDER THE SAXONS. 11 

Oat of his several conquests, Crida, in 584, formed a 
large kingdom, known at that time by the name of the King- 
dom of the Middle Angles, but afterwards more generally of 
Mercia. Gloucester was one of the fifteen cities of which it 
was composed, and was doubtless, both during the wars 
between the Britons and Saxons, and under the government 
of the latter, a place of considerable importance, on account 
of its situation on a navigable river ; in the Saxon annals, 
however, either from the concise way in which they are 
written, or from the loss of others more full, Gloucester is 
seldom mentioned, except for the purpose of recording the 
arrival, departure, or death, of some great personage. 
Gloucester, in the time of the Saxons, was governed by a 
Portgreve. — Aikyns. 

As at the council, or synod of Grateley, held by King 
Athelstan, in 928, and also by the King's own order, it was 
appointed that there should be one mint for coining of 
money in all burghs, it might be expected that Saxon or 
Danish coins of the Gloucester mint, would not be scarcer 
than those of the Romans ; in fact, however, one only is 
mentioned in history, which is a silver coin of Harold, with 
the following inscription ; — Harold Rex Anglorum. The 
King had Crown and Sceptre. The reverse is, Wulfgeat 
on (de) GLE-aue-cester. With Pax in the middle. This is 
taken from Rudder's account, but he gives no authority, nor 
mentions the catalogue or cabinet where it is to be found. 

The following chronological account comprehends the 
whole that is upon record, relating to Gloucester, except 
what has been already recited, during the Roman and Saxon 
governments. 

488. Hengist, the brave leader of the Saxons, is said by 
G. Monmouth, to have been beheaded at this place. Aure- 
lius Ambrosius, King of the Britons, having taken him 



12 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

prisoner, at a battle fought at Masebell, beyond the Humber, 
in Yorkshire, brought him to Gloucester, and there assem- 
bled a council of the nobility to determine his fate. Edei, 
the Earl, Eldad, the Bishop, and Eldo, the Mayor, or chief 
governor, were present, and when the majority shewed an 
inclination to spare the prisoner's life, they were persuaded 
to deliver him up to the Mayor, who led him out of the city 
and put him to death. This account is altogether denied by 
the Saxon writers, as well as by the best modern historians, 
who assert that he died a natural death. 

670,* or thereabouts, Wulfer, son of Penda, repaired the 
city, which had been considerably injured during the wars, 
and so much enlarged and beautified it, that according to 
Bede, it was esteemed, about the beginning of the eighth 
century, one of the noblest cities in the kingdom. 

836, or soon after, the Danes possessed themselves of this 
place, and pitching their tents here, lorded it over this part 
of the country, and made themselves masters of the Forest of 
Dean, and great part of Herefordshire.- — Rudder. 

896. A Wittena Gemot of the great men of Mercia was 
held at Gloucester, with the leave of Alfred. At this Gemot 
the Bishop of Worcester complained that he had been de- 
prived of his woodland. All the Witan declared that the 
church should have its rights preserved, as well as other 
persons. — He'ming Chart. Turner's Sax. 

918. The inhabitants of this city were instrumental in 
routing and destroying the Danish army. 

940. King Athelstan died here, and was buried at 
Malmesbury, with great funeral pomp.. — Will. ofMalmsb. 
Soon after this, Elgiva, the unfortunate wife of Edwy, 

* In the Monasticon Anglicanum the date is 679 ; this, however, 
cannot be correct, since Wulfer died in 675. 



UNDER THE SAXONS. 13 

the eleventh King of England, was intercepted at Gloucester, 
and put to death, with circumstances of peculiar cruelty. 
Edwy had contracted a violent passion for his fair cousin 
Elgiva, but the marriage was condemned by Odo, Archbishop 
of Canterbury, and Dunstan, on account of their being 
within the prohibited degrees. In consequence of their op- 
position to the opinion of the churchmen, Edwy and Elgiva 
suffered great persecution. He found his subjects in rebel- 
lion against him, and she, being seized by a party of armed 
men, was branded in the forehead with a hot iron, and sent 
to Ireland. On her return, she was intercepted, hamstringed, 
and cruelly put to death. Edwy died of a broken heart. — 
Anglia sacra. 

964. King Edgar resided a short time in the town, and 
one of his battles against the Danes is said to have been 
fought here. Rapin, however, asserts, that during his reign, 
there were no invasion from abroad, and all was quiet at 
home, and that he did not once draw his sword. — Rapin and 
Hume, sub. reg. Edgar. Turner, vol. 3. p. 165, 178, 184. 

978. Ethelred was crowned King, and in 980, the Danes, 
after an interval of nearly sixty years, again made a descent 
on England, in various parts at different periods. In 997, 
they appeared in the Severn, and at this time probably 
Gloucester was, for the third time, ravaged and almost con- 
sumed by fire, as mentioned by Rudder. 

1016. Edmund Ironside, having been defeated at Ashdon, 
co. Essex, or Essedin, according to Atkyns, came to Glou- 
cester, for the purpose of recruiting his forces. Canute fol- 
lowed him, and in a short time the two armies, headed by 
their respective kings, stood in sight of each other at Der- 
hurst, five miles up the Severn. Here Edmund challenged 
the Danish chief to single combat, which, according to some 
authors, was accepted. The fact seems to be, that Canute 



14 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

refused to accept the challenge, alleging, " that though he 
was superior to his rival in mental powers, yet he distrusted 
his own little body against a man of so great bulk," but he 
added, " that under present circumstances, it might be pru- 
dent for both to lay aside their resentments and divide the 
kingdom.' ' Both armies unanimously agreed to the proposal, 
and the English king, yielding partly to their desires, con- 
cluded a treaty in the isle of Alney, by which the kingdom 
of Mercia was given to Canute, and Wessex, with some 
appendages, including the city of London, reserved to Ed- 
mund. — Rapin, sub. an. 1016. W. of Malmsb. p. 40. Hove- 
derfs annals, p. 250. Huntingdon, snb. ann. 1016. 

1051. Edward the Confessor, about this time took up his 
residence at Gloucester, where Eustace, Earl of Builoign, 
who had married the King's sister, visited him, and was 
magnificently entertained. This visit, however, was nearly 
fatal to Edward, for being without military force, with great 
difficulty he avoided an unexpected attack from Earl Godwin, 
whose resentment had been excited by the following circum- 
stance. The Earl of Builoign landed at Dover, where his 
followers were soon engaged in a quarrel with the inhabi- 
tants, and killed an Englishman. The citizens, enraged at 
this conduct, determined on revenge, but the Count being 
before-hand with them, began the attack, and killed many 
of both sexes, in the city, and trampled some children under 
their horses' feet. The people armed in consequence, and 
the Count fled to Gloucester, where the King was. When 
Godwin received information of this outrage, he was enraged 
that it should have happened within his authorhy, and came 
forward as the champion of the sufferers. He immediately 
raised from his own counties of Kent, Sussex, and Wessex, 
a military power, and his son Swein did the same with the 
counties of Oxford, Gloucester, Hereford, Somerset, and 



UNDER THE SAXONS. 15 

Berks, which were under his government, while Harold, 
another son, raised forces in Essex and other counties. 

The King, by his friends, levied forces to oppose him, but 
could not prevent Godwin from marching to Beverston, in 
Gloucestershire, where he demanded of the King, the Earl 
of Bulloign and his followers, under a menace of hostilities, 
which the King, after some deliberation, refused. To pre- 
vent the miseries of a civil war, Leofric, a friend of the King, 
proposed that the King and Godwin should meet on an ap- 
pointed day, in London, and have the matters judicially 
determined by the Wittena Gemot. The proposal was ac- 
cepted, and Edward marched to London, while Godwin and 
his sons occupied Southwark. Godwin, however, being 
summoned to meet the Wittena, felt afraid to face it, and 
dreading the result of an enquiry into his conduct, fled during 
the night, and, with his three sons, escaped to Flanders. — 
Turner, vol. 3. page 321. 

1053. The King held a great assembly of his nobles at 
Gloucester, in the ancient building of the monastery, in the 
time of Atkyns, called the Long Workhouse, but since con- 
verted into a dwelling-house, and now the property of 
Mrs. Smith, widow of the late Robert Smith, Esq. 

1063. The King came again to Gloucester, and Harold 
was employed in reducing the Welch, who had long been 
accustomed to harrass the western borders, and then retire 
to the safe fastnesses of their mountains. Griffith, or Griffin, 
the reigning prince, had greatly distinguished himself in these 
predatory incursions, but now, in consequence, of the vigo- 
rous measures pursued by the English army, he was sacri- 
ficed to the fears of his own followers, and his head being 
cut off, was sent to Harold, who immediately transmitted it, 
with the gilded stern of Griffith's ship, to the King at Glou- 
cester. — S. Dunelm. Flor. Wore, &c. also Hume and Rapin, 
sub. ann. 1063. W. Malm. lib. 2. cap. 13. 



16 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



AFTER THE NORMAN CONQUEST. 

William the Conqueror often held his court at Gloucester, 
and generally spent the Christmas here, attended by the 
principal nobility and ecclesiastics of the kingdom. In 1084, 
and again in 1085, the King, with his Lords, held his court 
here for five days. The Clergy also, with their Archbishop, 
held several synods here. — Fosbrooke. From the distin- 
guished selection of Gloucester, for these purposes, it seems 
at that time to have been a place of considerable importance, 
and magnitude also, to entertain so numerous a body of 
nobles and others, whom duty or business brought to the 
royal court. From the Domesday record may be formed a 
tolerable conjecture of its extent, population, and conse- 
quence, about 1086. " In King Edward's time, the city of 
Gloucester paid thirty-six pounds in money ; twelve sex- 
taries (gallons) of honey according to the measure of the 
burgh; thirty-six dicres of iron (each ten bars ) ; a hundred 
iron rods drawn out for nails of the King's ships, and some 
other small customs, in the King's hall and chamber. Now 
this city pays the King sixty pounds, twenty in ora fa Saxon 
coin about sixteen pence value) and of money the King hath 
twenty." 

" In the demesne lands of the King, Rogerius de Berckelai 
holds one house, and one fishery in the vill, and it is out of 
the King's hands. Balduinus held it in king Edward's time." 

" Osburnus, Bishop fofExon) holds the land and man- 
sions which Edmarus held. They py ten shillings with 
other custom." 

" Gaufridus de Manneuile, holds six mansions. In king 
Edward's time, these paid six shillings and eight pence, with 
other custom." 



AFTER THE NORMANS. IV 

" Willielmus Baderon, two mansions, of thirty pence." 
" Willielmus Scriba, holds one mansion, of fifty-one 
pence." 

" Rogerius de Laci, one mansion, of twenty-six pence." 
" Osbernus Episcopus, one mansion, of forty pence." 
" Bernerius, one mansion, of fourteen pence." 
" Willielmus Calous, one mansion, of twelve pence." 
" Durandus, the Sheriff, two mansions, of fourteen pence." 
" The same Durandus holds one mansion, of twenty-six 
pence, and another mansion, which pays no custom." 

" Hadeuuinus, holds one mansion, which pays gabel, and 
withholds other custom." 

" All these mansions paid royal custom in the time of 
king Edward ; now king William hath nothing thence, nor 
Robertus, his minister." 

" These mansions were in the farm of king Edward, when 
he was alive, and after his death ; but now they are taken 
away from the farm and custom of the King. ' In king 
Edward's time, there was demesne of the King in the city, 
all his entertainment and clothing. When Earl William was 
received to farm, he was likewise clothed.' There were six- 
teen houses where the castle stands, which are now wanting, 
and in the burgh of the city fourteen that are waste." 

Besides these, there are mentioned in the same survey, as 
belonging to different proprietors, eighty houses and burg- 
ages, and about a hundred, the property of St. Peter's 
Abbey ; the whole number at that period was, at least, two 
hundred and fifty-five. According to modern calculation, 
it is usual to reckon five persons to a house ; this, however, 
is scarcely high enough for that period, when the mansions 
were upon the larger scale; and greater state was maintained 
in the number of servants and dependents. On the suppo- 
sition that the average number in a family was ten, the 
population will amount to two thousand five hundred, 



18 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

In 1087, or the following year, the town was nearly con- 
sumed by fire, in the disputes between William Rufus and 
his brother Robert. — Furnej/. 

In 1093, William II, was seized with a distemper while 
he was at Gloucester, which gave some hopes to the people, 
that by his death they should be released from the almost 
intolerable oppressions they laboured under ; but he reco- 
vered, and notwithstanding his promises while under the 
apprehension of death, he encouraged extortion, injustice, 
and rapine, as much as before, among his ministers and fa- 
vourites. About the same time, Malcolm, King of Scotland, 
conformably to an agreement made with the King, came to 
Gloucester, to settle some affairs that had been left unde- 
termined in the late treaty. On William's refusing to admit 
him to his presence, without having first received his homage, 
the Scotch Prince considered this demand as a pretence to 
affront him, and returned home disgusted at the haughty 
conduct of the English King. — Rapin, sub. ann. 1093. 

1094, The Welch, under the command of William de 
Odo, or d'Eu, with the view of procuring the deposition of 
William, spoiled and otherwise did great mischief to the 
town. — Stowe's Annals> p. 132. 

1099. William, agreeably to ancient custom, spent the 
Christmas at Gloucester. Hen. Htintingd. p. 216. 

1101. On the eighth of the ides of June, the town, which 
was built principally of timber, was nearly destroyed by fire, and 
twenty years afterwards suffered the same calamity. — Antiq. 
Brit. S. Bunelm. p. 226. Atkyns. 

1123. On the feast of the Purification, Henry had his 
court at Gloucester, and at a synod held at the same time, 
by his command, Curboil, Abbot of St. Bennett's, was elected 
Archbishop of Canterbury. — Sax. An. Hen. Huntingd. 

1139. Matilda, or Maud, widow of the Emperor, Hen- 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 19 

IV. on the invitation of her brother, Robert, Earl of Glou- 
cester, came to England with a view of taking the crown, 
which Stephen had usurped. She made her first quarters at 
Arundel, from whence she came to Bristol, and then to 
Gloucester, where she was received by Milo, the King's 
Constable, and Deputy Governor of the Castle, under Robert. 
During her residence here in the following year, King Ste- 
phen, after having exhibited astonishing feats of valour, in 
the battle fought near Lincoln, was taken prisoner and 
brought to her by the Earl of Gloucester. She ordered him 
to be confined in the Castle at Bristol, and soon after left 
this place, and passed through Cirencester, in her way to 
Winchester. — Will. Malmsb. 

1141. Matilda having, by her haughty conduct, and 
breach of promise to the Bishop of Winchester, excited the 
hatred of the Londoners, suddenly left the metropolis, and 
again came to Gloucester, to concert measures with Milo. 
She then returned to Winchester, where she shut herself 
up in the Castle, and endured a close siege of two months ; 
but finding it difficult to hold out any longer, she sallied out, 
attended by her friends, and after many skirmishes, arrived 
at Devizes. From hence she escaped to Gloucester, whither, 
it is said by some authors, that she was carried in a coffin. 
Milo was near being taken during the march from Winches- 
ter, and came almost naked to Gloucester ; but Earl Robert 
was made prisoner, and after six months' confinement, was 
exchanged by the Empress for the King ; this sacrifice was 
due to a man who had been her constant friend, and had 
borne the expences of her house during the whole time, 
from her first coming to England. — Rapin, sub. ann. 1141. 
Brampton, p. 1032. Gervase. Malmsbury. 

Hence it appears that Gloucester continued firmly attached 
to ihe cause of the Empress, in opposition to the claims of 



20 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

the Usurper; this adherence, however, was the occasion 01 
great mischief and impoverishment to it. 

1150. The city was again burnt in May.-— ikT5& C. C. C. 
Oxon. 

1170. One Joce, a wealthy Jew of this place, was fined 
a hundred shillings for furnishing the rebels in Ireland with 
money, — Madox. 

1172. Jorworth, Lord of Caerleon-upon-Usk, attended 
by a large body of forces, destroyed all the country with fire 
and sword, even to the gates of Hereford and Gloucester. — 
Furney. Lloyd's History of Wales. 

1 175. Henry the second summoned hither a great council 
of his Earls and Barons, and Reece and other Princes of 
Wales; when orders were issued, that if any of the Welch 
made insurrections, the inhabitants of the countries where 
the assault should be made, were to fall upon them ; and the 
Earl of Gloucester and the Nobility were sworn to the ob- 
servance thereof. — Rudder. 

1190. William Longchamp, the Pope's Legate, High 
Chancellor, and Bishop of Ely, being entrusted with the 
regency, during Richard the Second's absence, held a synod 
here. In the same year a great fire happened in the city, 
which consumed a great part of it. — MSS. Froivc. 

1216. Henry the Third, then ten years of age, was 
crowned at Gloucester, on the 28th of October, in presence 
of the Pope's Legate, Henry, Archbishop of Dublin, Peter, 
Bishop of Winchester, and other Bishops, and great eccle- 
siastics. The crown which the late king had worn, having 
been lost at Wellstream, with the other regalia, in the inun- 
dation, a plain circle or chaplet of gold was used on the 
occasion. — M. Paris. Rapin. 

1218. Twenty-four burgesses, in pursuance of the King's 
writ, were appointed to watch over the Jews in Gloucester, 



AFTER THE NORMANS, 21 

and guard them against the insults of the Jerusalem pilgrims; 
and that they might be known, they were ordered to wear 
upon the forepart of their upper garment, two broad strips 
of white linen and parchment. — Toveifs Anglia Judaica. 

1222. The whole parish of St. Mary, before the gate of 
the Abbey, (St. Mary de Lode,) was burnt on the second 
August.— MSS. Froivc. 

Another fire happened about the same time, or soon after, 
which spread devastation from Castle-lane, on both sides the 
Great-street as far as the Lich-gate, (Edward's gate;) and 
again another fire broke out early in the morning, extending 
from the Great Cross, and demolished the whole street, 
(sutorum et drapiorum) or Taylor's and Draper's row, and 
St. Mary de Grase-lane church, with both sides of the Great- 
street, (Westgate-street) to the placa where the former fire 
stopped. — MSS. Frowc. 

1233. Henry III. summoned all the vassals of the crown 
to meet him with their troops at Gloucester, and on the 
refusal of the Earl of Pembroke and some others, lie ordered 
their estates to be plundered. He summoned all the Lords 
again in the same year to meet him at Gloucester, with horse 
and arms, the day after All Saints. With this army he 
marched into Wales, and while he was lodged, with most of 
his general officers, in the Castle of Grosmont, the Earl of 
Pembroke, in the night fell upon the army, which was quar- 
tered in tents without, and totally routed them. In conse- 
quence of this defeat, he retreated back to Gloucester. — 
Mat. Paris. Rapin, sub. ami. 1233. 

1234. The King left Gloucester, where he thought him- 
self unsafe, on account of the Earl of Pembroke's victorious 
progress, and left the counties near the Severn, to the mercy 
of the enemy. — M. Paris, p. 394. 

In the same year a Council and Parliament were held here, 



22 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

at the latter of which, the disinherited Barons were restored 
to the King's favour. — M. Westm. 

1241. The King held his court here, and Nicholas de 
Farnham, was consecrated Bishop of Durham. In the same 
year also, David ap Llewellin, Prince of North Wales, came 
and did homage for the principality. — Rudder. 

Dr. Fuller observes, that Gloucester was more beloved by 
Henry, than London itself; and with good reason, for it 
was strong and loyal, and the place of his coronation. As 
upon former occasions however, so now, its attachment to 
the sovereign was the occasion of great sufferings. 

1263. Sir Maci de Besile, or Matthias de Besille, a French 
Knight, was made Sheriff of Gloucestershire, and Constable 
of Gloucester Castle, by the King. This proceeding did not 
meet the concurrence of the Barons, who set up Sir William 
Tracy, a Knight of the County, in opposition to him. As 
soon, however, as the new Sheriff began to exercise the 
duties of his office, he was assaulted by a large body of the 
King's forces, headed by Maci, and being taken prisoner, 
was led in an insulting manner through the town to the Cas- 
tle, and there cast into prison. A successful attempt was 
made by the Barons, through the means of Sir Roger de 
Clifford, and Sir John Giffard, who besieged the Castle four 
days, which was bravely defended by Maci. The burning, 
however, of the first gate, and destruction of the wooden 
bridge, which led to the Castle, rendered the situation less 
tenable ; another entrance being also opened to the besiegers, 
by some prisoners who had been imprudently released, Maci 
and his men were obliged to retire to the high and strongest 
tower, where they defended themselves bravely, till the 
three iron gates and locks were forced, and the Castle was 
taken : even in this extremity, Maci refused to surrender ; 
he was, however, secured, sent prisoner to the marches of 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 23 

Wales, and confined in Erdesley Castle. Sir Roger de 
Clifford then returned to his allegiance, and delivered the 
town and Castle into the King's hands ; but Sir John Gif- 
fard retired to Brimpsfield, where he assembled his vassals, 
and had frequent skirmishes with the King's forces at Glou- 
cester. — Rob. o/Glouc. 

A carpenter in the Castle, who had slain a gentleman of 
the beseigers, during the siege, was compelled by GifFard, to 
leap from the top of the Castle, after it was taken, and so 
died miserably. — Aikyns. 

1264. The King again lost possession of the town, by 
the following stratagem : Sir John Giifard, and Sir John de 
Balun, covered with Welch cloaks, and riding upon two 
woolpacks, like woolmongers, were let into the town at the 
Westgate. As soon as they were admitted, they leaped off 
their horses, threw away their cloaks, and appeared in com- 
plete armour. The unexpected sight afrrightened the 
keepers, who instantly delivered up the keys, and the gates 
were thrown open to the Knight's followers, who were near 
at hand. But the Castle was still in the King's possession, 
and the town would have soon been recovered, had not the 
Prince, who was close at their heels, been checked by the 
breaking down of the bridge. This, however, he quickly 
repaired, and began an attack upon the town at the West- 
gate. This happened on Ash-Wednesday, but though troops 
were sent to his assistance from the Castle, little or no pro- 
gress was made. At length the Prince turned aside into the 
meadows, and passing the river in a boat, entered the 
Castle. The first information which the besieged received, 
was from a sight of the Prince's banner displayed on one of 
the towers. Notwithstanding this, Sir John Giffard still 
continued the seige of the Castle on the town side, which 
was strongly defended by the garrison. The Castle being 



24 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

burnt, and the communication with the country cut off, and 
the near approach of Robert Ferrars, Earl of Derby, with 
a great reinforcement against him, at length induced Prince 
Edward to visit his enemies unarmed, and in a private man- 
ner. At this conference, he granted on oath, the demands 
of the Barons, who being thus satisfied, left the town in his 
possession. The unfortunate townsmen, who had ever been 
loyal to the King, and upon this occasion had let in the 
enemies by mistake, felt the unjustifiable resentment of the 
Prince, and were obliged to purchase their pardon at the 
expence of a thousand pounds, after having had the town 
nearly destroyed by fire during the siege. The Prince set 
about fortifying the town, which was quickly taken by the 
Earl of Leicester, and soon retaken by the Prince, and the 
Earl of Gloucester. They besieged it on the north side, and 
entered at a breach in the wall leading to St. Oswald's gate. 
— R. GIonc. Chron. coat. AT. Paris. Rudder. 

1265. Robert de Ros, William cle Vesti, and other 
Knights and Gentlemen, to the number of three hundred, 
entered the town to defend themselves in it against the 
Prince, but were obliged to surrender, and having bound 
themselves by an oath, not to bear arms against him for a 
month, were suffered to depart. — The same. 

1278. Edward I. on the octaves of St. John the Baptist, 
in the sixth year of his reign, held a Parliament in the long 
workhouse belonging to the Abbey. To this were surnmon- 
e / d by writs of enquiry issued by the King, all persons who 
were in possession of contested estates, to shew by what au- 
thority they held them. The laws then enacted, have since 
been stiled the statutes of Gloucester. — Fumey. 

1290. Proclamation was made by the Sheriff, in obedience 
to the King's writ, that no one should hurt the Jews, or take 
from them the goods which the King had allowed them to 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 25 

keep ; on the contrary, that they should have a safeguard 
appointed them 1 , on their paying for it, and returning all the 
pawns and pledges to those who were willing to redeem 
them, to convey them safe to London, for the purpose of 
their leaving the kingdom. These people, who are generally 
supposed to have begun to settle in England in the reign of 
the Conqueror, in small numbers, had, at this period, in- 
creased to fifteen thousand. The Kings, at different times, 
had granted them considerable privileges, for which, how- 
ever, they generally paid very dear, in the discharge of fines, 
ransoms, and compositions, by which the royal revenue was 
greatly assisted : at length, however, then* usury, adultera- 
tion of coin, and other iniquitous practices, were arrived to 
such a pass, that the Parliament this year came to the reso- 
lution of sending every individual out of the kingdom. — 
Anglia Jud, Rapin, sub, anno, 1290. 

1321. During the quarrels between Edward II. and the 
Barons, the King was frequently here ; but in the winter of 
this year, the city was seized by the Barons, who had pre- 
viously outlawed the two Despencers, and demolished their 
castles. On this event he hastened to Gloucester, and hav- 
ing, in his way, sent a party to destroy the castle of the 
Giffards, at Brimpsfield, ordered John GhTard, usually called 
the Rich, and John Elmebridge, to be hanged here. — 
Knighton, Dugdale, Rapin. 

1327. This year Edward the Second, after having suffered 
a long and cruel imprisonment, was murdered in Berkeley 
Castle, and buried in the Abbey Church of Gloucester. — 
Rapin, sub, ann, 1327. 

1378. On the 20th of October, Richard the second held a 
Parliament here, in which the controversies ran high between 
the spiritual and temporal lords, each complaining of the 
others encroachments. It lasted twenty-eight days, and 



26 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

concluded with the grant of a liberal supply to the King. — 
Rapin. Fumey. Bradey. 

1399. A complaint was exhibited against the Bailiffs of 
Gloucester, for having imposed a tonnage of five-pence upon 
every ton of oil, or wine, brought up the Severn — Pari Rolls. 

1407. Henry IV. held a Parliament here on the 20th of 
October, for the usual purpose of granting subsidies ; it was 
removed to Westminster in November. — Cotton's Abridge. 

1420. Another Parliament was held here, which, after a. 
fortnight's session, was removed to Westminster. — Fumey. 

1450. After Michaelmas, Richard, Duke of York, coming- 
out of Ireland, took Reginald, Abbot of St. Peter, Gloucester, 
and sent him, with others, to the Castle of Gloucester. — 
Stowe. 

1452. One Booke, was lying in v/ait for Richard, Duke 
of York, at this place. 

1461. Edward, Earl of March, received at Gloucester 
the news of the death of the Duke of York, his father, and 
removed thence to Shrewsbury. — Hollingshead. 

1483. Richard III. immediately after his coronation, came 
to Gloucester, and continued there some time. From this 
place he sent an express order to Brackenbury, Governor of 
the Tower of London, to murder Edward V. and his brother 
the Duke of York. The conscientious Governor, with great 
submission, refused the office, and, by Richard's order, in 
writing, the government was entrusted for one night to 
Tyrrel, who, according to his own confession, executed the 
horrid deed. The tyrant had, no doubt, formed this plan 
before he left London, considering Gloucester as a situation 
distant enough from the scene of action, to remove suspicion 
from himself, and yet not so distant, but that he might receive 
speedy information of the execution of his iniquitous project. 
— Rapin, sub. anno 1483. 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 27 

In the same year a writ was directed to the Mayor, Sheriff's 
and Aldermen, to forbid the wearing of any "lyverey of cloth- 
ing, baieux, signe, or other conisaunce of the yefte of any man 
or person, of what estate, degree or condition soever he be," 
but only that of the King's.— Harl. MSS. No. 433. 

1*85. On Whitsun even, Henry VII. came from Wor- 
cester to Gloucester. Three miles from the town he was 
met by the Mayor, Aldermen, and Sheriffs, in scarlet gowns, 
' and a great multitude of people on horseback. A procession 
of friers and ecclesiastics, belonging to the parish churches, 
attended him from between the two bridges, and the Abbot 
and other members of the Monastery, at the church door. 
On the Sunday, the Abbot, wearing his mitre, sung high mass, 
and in procession. The sermon was preached by the Bishop 
of Worcester; and on Monday, the King left the city. — 
LelancTs Collect. Vol. IF. 198. 

During the reign of Henry VII. this city paid £88. 10s. 8d. 
for aid for making Prince Arthur a Knight. — Pari. Rolls. 

1581. The first payment of Sir Thomas White's benefac- 
tion, was made to the corporation. — Corporation Book. 

1588. A letter was received from Queen Elizabeth and 
Council, about furnishing a ship against the Spanish invasion. 
— Corp. Book. 

1593. The city was taxed on account of the plague, which 
carried off in London, and in the liberties, 10,675 persons. — 
Stowe. 

1605. The plague raged at Gloucester, and John Tayler, 
an Alderman, was fined 100/. for keeping his servant, having 
the plague. — Corp. Books. 

About this time King James was at Gloucester, and resided 
at the Deanry, where he touched for the King's evil. — Rudder. 

1626. John Tilsby introduced the manufactory of pins 
into Gloucester. 



28 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

1643. On the 10th of August* the city being summoned 
by Charles I. to surrender, refused. A declaration against 
the royal cause had been made, as early as 1641, when the 
Houses of Parliament declared to the kingdom then* resolu- 
tion of a defensive war. ." During the King's preparations 
in the north, they attempted to put themselves into a posture 
of defence : within the city, one company of volunteers was 
added to the trained band, and some pieces of ordnance ob- 
tained from London and Bristol : meanwhile the city was 
open on three parts, at least, and had no considerable defence, 
though capable thereof, by advantage of situation. The citi- 
zens shewed their care and affection in fortifying the town, 
but during these things, the enemy came not near it. About 
the first of January, 1642, the main strength of the King's 
army came before Cirencester, prepared, and resolved to storm 
it; and on the second of February, the town was assaulted 
and taken. The next day, the city of Gloucester was demanded 
by Prince Rupert, and though the fall of Cirencester had 
created considerable apprehension, yet a short answer was 
returned by Lieutenant-Colonel Massie, and the principal 
officers, that they were resolved, with their lives and fortunes, 
to defend the city, for the use of the King and Parliament, and 
in no wise would surrender at the demand of a foreign Prince. 
Another answer was sent from the Mayor of the city, that he 
was resolved, according to his oath and allegiance, to keep 
the city in his Majesty's behoof, and would not deliver the 
same according to his summons. To a second summons a 
similar answer was returned. At this time, however, the 
clouds gathered round the city; the enemy lay strong at 
Cirencester and Tewkesbury ; the inhabitants were confined 
to the town walls ; the works not half finished ; the soldiers 
within, mutinous and desperate ; no money coming from the 
state, and but small supplies out of the country; the vilest 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 29 

mutineers were to be dealt with by entreaty ; their insoleneies 
suffered with patience; the city was constrained to free 
quarter, and great disbursements by way of loan, and the 
Governor to use his skill in keeping together the mal-contented 
soldiers. Such was the situation of things within the city, 
when a powerful Welsh army advanced towards it, und began 
to intrench at Highnam." — Corbett. 

Whether these forces wanted resolution, or waited for 
Prince Rupert's approach on the other side, a fatal error was 
committed by remaining five weeks without attacking even 
the out-guard, or making any other attempt than merely de- 
manding the town. " Sir William Waller immediately after 
the reduction of Malmsbury, bent his course towards Glou- 
cester, and formed the design of surprising the Welsh army. 
He crossed the Severn at Framilode passage, and, unobserved 
by the Royalists, drew near to Highnam-house, thus placing 
them between two fires. Upon this they sounded a parley, 
and were obliged to give up the house, and themselves as 
prisoners of war. On the 25th of March, near fifteen hun- 
dred were led captive into Gloucester, but were all set at 
liberty in a few days," not from any principle of lenity in the 
captors, but because they were burthensome and even dan- 
gerous to the safety of the garrison. 

Hitherto Lieutenant-Colonel Massie governed the city 
under the orders of the Earl of Stanford ; but his return not 
being expected, Massie received the appointment of Governor 
under the Lord General's commission, and with the approba- 
tion of the citizens. Affairs now assumed a more threatening 
aspect round the city, and after the unexpected fall of Bristol, 
serious apprehensions began to be entertained by the inhabi- 
tants. Many attempts were made by the royal party to 
recover them to their allegiance; letters, messages, and 
verbal solicitations were employed, but notwithstanding " the 



30 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

mouths of the viler people were filled with curses against the 
authors" of the engagements which bound them to the par- 
liamentary cause, yet by the superior influence of the magis- 
trates and military officers, the resolution was taken of de- 
fending the city to the utmost extremity. " The strength of 
the garrison at this time is said to have been two regiments of 
foot, a hundred horse, with the trained bands, and a few refor- 
madoes, with about a hundred horse and dragoons from Berke- 
ley Castle, in the whole about fifteen hundred men ; forty single 
barrels of gunpowder, with a slender artillery. The works 
were of large compass, not half perfect : from the Southgate 
eastward, almost to the North Port, the city was defended 
with an ancient wall lined with earth to a reasonable height \ 
thence to the Northgate, with a slender work upon a low 
ground, having the advantage of a stone barn that commanded 
several ways : upon the lower part of the city, from the 
North to the Westgate, there was no ancient defence, but a 
small work newly raised, with the advantage of marsh grounds 
without, and a line drawn within from the inner Northgate 
under the College v/all to the Priory of St. Oswald's : from 
the West towards the Southgate along the river side, no 
more defence than the river itself, and the meadows beyond, 
level with the town : from the Castle to the South Port, a 
firm and lofty work to command the high ground in the 
suburbs : the ditches narrow, but watered round. In this 
posture did the city stand, when the King's forces hovered 
over the hills, and now and then skirted on the town, before 
the close siege commenced." " On Sunday, the 6th of Au- 
gust, General Garret faced the city with his brigade of horse 
in Tredworth field, and in the afternoon a small party of 
horse and foot commanded by Captain Blunt, and assisted by 
Lieutenant Colonel Matthews, Capt. White, Capt. Pury the 
younger, and Capt. Lieutenant Harcus, issued forth of the 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 31 

Northgate, and at Wootton took about ten prisoners, and 
sending home the foot, the horse went along to Upton St. 
Leonard's, and from thence to the foot of Painswick hill, on 
the top of which they discovered a party of the enemy's horse, 
and so going round about by Matson, they retreated without 
the loss or hurt of any." 

On the 7th of August news was received by Capt. Pury the 
younger, that the enemy were plundering at Tuffleigh, in 
consequence of which a party set out after them, but found 
on their arrival there, that they were going away with their 
plunder to Mr. Wood's house at Brookthrop, to which place 
they followed them. Here some skirmishing happened be- 
tween the two parties, and some lives were lost ; the repub- 
licans, however, perceiving a party of horse which had been 
watching from the hill, now making towards them, retreated, 
and were met at the town's end by a party of musketeers, 
who were coming to their assistance. 

On the 8th of August, the King, with all the foot from 
Bristol, and carriages, came to Berkeley, with an intention to 
march speedily towards Gloucester, and on the following day 
his Majesty dined ut Prinknedge (Prinknash) with Lady 
Bridgeman. On the same day Lord Chandos dined at Brock- 
worth, at Lady Guise's, whereupon a party w r ent out of the 
Northgate towards Barnwood, skirmished with the enemy, 
and did some execution among them, and amongst the rest, a 
little boy of Capt. Nelmes's company, having shot away all 
his bullets, charged his musket with a pebble stone, and 
killed a commander of the royal forces. 

" On the 10th of August his Majesty, with about 6,000 
horse and foot, the Welsh and Worcester forces coming after, 
faced the town in Tredworth field, and about 2,000 more in 
Walham, within cannon shot at random of the works. To- 



32 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

wards the afternoon his Majesty sent a message by two 
Heralds at Arms, one of which, being Somerset Herald, read 
the message at the Tolsey as followeth. 

" Out of tender compassion to our city of Gloucester, and 
that it may not receive prejudice by our army, which we 
cannot prevent, if we be compelled to assault it ; we are 
personally come before it to require the same, and are graci- 
ously pleased to let all the inhabitants of, and all other 
persons within that city, as well souldiers as others, know ; 
that if they shall immediately submit themselves and deliver 
this city to us, we are contented freely and absolutely to 
pardon every one of them, without exception : and doe assure 
them, on the word of a King, that they nor any of them shall 
receive the least damage or prejudice by our army in their 
persons or estates : but that we will appoint such a Governor 
and a moderate garrison to reside there, as shall be both for 
the ease and security of that city and that whole country. 
But if they shall neglect this offer of grace and favour, and 
compell us by the power of our army to reduce that place 
(which by the help of God, we doubt not, we shall easily and 
shortly be able to doe) they must thanke themselves for all 
the calamities and miseries that must befall them. To this 
message we expect a cleere and positive answer within two 
houres after the publishing hereof, and by these presents doe 
give leave to any persons, safely to repaire to and return from 
us, whom that city shall desire to imploy unto us in that 
businesse. And doe require all the officers and souldiers of 
our army, quietly to suffer them to pass accordingly." 

" The herald mentioned the publishing of this message 
openly in the street, but his Majesty by his message not 
requiring the same, the Governor would no wayes permit it. 
The Heralds being withdrawn, after some debate in satisfying 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 33 

Mr. Maior's scruples touching his oath of Maioraliy, an 
answer was drawn and agreed to, both by citizens and soul- 
diers, in the following words : — 

" We, the inhabitants, magistrates, officers, and souldiers 
within this garrison of Gloucester, unto his Majesties gracious 
message, return this humble answer, That we doe keepe this 
city, according to our oaths and allegiance, to and for the use 
of his Majesty and his royal posterity, and doe accordingly 
conceive ourselves wholly bound to obey the commands of 
his Majesty, signified by both Houses of Parliament, and are 
resolved, by God's helpe, to keepe this city accordingly." 

This answer being received by the King, who was then in 
Tred worth-field, attended by Prince Charles, the Duke of 
York, Prince Rupert, Lord Charles Ruthen, and others, the 
army immediately advanced towards the suburbs, on the 
east part, into Barton-street, where a commander was killed 
from the Eastgate in the first skirmish. The suburbs had 
been set on fire immediately upon the return of the mes- 
sengers, on the north, east, and south parts, as being likely 
to afford shelter to the royalists in their attack. Some houses, 
however escaped the flames, and under cover of these, some 
entrenchments were thrown up in Gawdy Green, on the 
south, and about Issold's house, on the east parts, within 
musket shot of the walls. The pipes which conveyed the 
water from Robins-wood-hill to the town conduits, were cut 
off; the course of water that drove the corn mills was di- 
verted ; and every method used to distress the town. 

By this time (August 11,) the Welsh forces under Sir 
William Vavasor, had advanced to the Vineyard-hill ; (an 
out-post intended to keep off the approach of the Welsh, 
but then deserted for want of men.) " Upon their drawing 
up on the side of the hill, a demeculverin discharged from 

the Pen, near the west bridge, fell amongst them and did 

b2 



34 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

execution." " From hence the forces passed the river, and 
joined the newly arrived troops from Worcester, on the 
north-west side of the city, at Longford, and the King's 
holm. General Ruthen had placed his leager at some 
grounds behind the Priory of Lathony, somewhat sheltered 
from the enemy's shot by a rising ground that lay between. 
Sir Jacob Ashley, with a strong party, occupied some part 
of the suburbs on the east side. The east and south ports 
were dammed up, and rammed with a thickness of earth, 
cannon proof; and the walls on that side, from port to port, 
were lined to the battlements, as the main shock was ex- 
pected from that quarter." 

On the 12th of August, in the forenoon, a party, com- 
manded by Lieut. Harcus, sallied forth through a door made 
for the purpose, in a brick house, near the town wall, on the 
south-east part over against Rignall-stile, (making a bridge 
of ladders over the moat) and fell into the enemies trenches 
in Gawdy-green, and gained some advantages, without much 
loss. In the afternoon, Capt. Gray, with 150 musketeers 
sallied over the works at the Little Mead, and fell upon the 
Worcester forces, not yet joined by the Welsh, at the King's 
holm, marching up to the main guard, when they killed a 
captain, with eight or nine common soldiers, took five pri- 
soners and divers arms, burnt their main guard, and retreated 
without the loss of any. 

" On Sunday, August 13, a battery was opened at Gawdy- 
green, against the wall and brick house over against Rignall- 
stile, by which one man (no soldier) was killed as he was 
peeping through, but no other mischief done. 

" On Monday, Aug. 14, the cannon continued to play from 
Gawdy-green, and battered the town wail on the south-side 
of the Fryer's Orchard; but the breach was quickly made up 
with wool-sacks and cannon baskets. An attempt was also 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 35 

made to drain the moat, and the water was much sunk be- 
tween the south and east ports. On the following day, James 
Harcus, Captain Lieutenant to the Earl of Stamford, was 
killed in the Fryer's Orchard, as he was too venturously 
looking what execution a grenado had done, which he then 
threw into the enemies trenches. 

" On Wednesday the 16th, about 150 musketeers, com- 
manded by Captain Crispe, sallied forth at the north port, 
and fell upon the enemies trenches, upon the east-side of 
the Fryar's Orchard, and killed above a hundred men, and 
with some other advantages, and only two men wounded* 
made good their retreat into the town." — Every day pro- 
duced more or less skirmishing, and on each side feats of 
valour were displayed; however, notwithstanding the strength 
of the royal forces, and the advantages they possessed in ex- 
perienced officers, and numerous artillery, the progress was 
very slow. The enthusiasm of the inhabitants enabled them 
to brave the greatest dangers, to surpass the most formida-. 
ble difficulties, and refuse the most artful solicitations, and 
powerful arguments, in favour of the royal cause : the ardour 
and intrepidity displayed in the course of this siege would 
have handed down to posterity the names of those who con- 
ducted it with glorious triumph, if to guard the crown and 
preserve the integrity of the constitution had been the object 
of their perseverance. 

" In the afternoon of September the third, a paper was 
shot upon an arrow into the town, with the following con- 
tents : — 

These are to let you undersfand your God Waller hath 
forsaken you, and hath retired himself to the tower of Lon- 
don: Essex is beaten like a dog. Yeelde to the King's mercy 
in time, otherwise, if we enter per force, no quarter for 
such obstinate traiterly rogues. — From a well wisher. 



36 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

To which presently, upon another arrow, was returned this 
answer : — 

Waller's no God of ours — base rogues, ye lie ! 

Our God survives from all eternity ; 

Though Essex beaten be, as you doe say, 

Rome's yoke we are resolv'd nere to obey : 

But for our cabages which ye have eaten, 

Be sure, ere long, ye shall be soundly beaten. 

Quarter we aske you none if we fall downe, 

King Charles will lose true subjects with the towne. 
So saith your best friend, if you make timely use of him, 

Nicholas Cudgel you well. 
On Monday, the fourth of September, the garrison con- 
ceived hopes of relief from the discovery of two fires on 
Waynload-hill, made by two messengers, whom they had sent 
out the night before to give intelligence if any succours were 
approaching; these signals were answered by lights in the 
College Tower. On the following day, September the fifth, 
£he siege was raised ,• it had been appointed for a public fast, 
and the fortunate coincidence of circumstances produced the 
reflection, " that God had sent a deliverance, and that, in the 
close of a solemn fast, as a gracious return of prayer." — 
Corbet Dorney. 

That an army consisting of 30,000 men, well disciplined, 
under able commanders, amply supplied with means of 
offence, and of unquestionable loyalty, should invest a town 
so ill provided and weakly fortified, for twenty-six days, 
without the least impression made, or advantage gained on 
the place, justly excites surprise. Though abundantly pro- 
vided with battering cannon and ammunition, they fired 
few shots in comparison of what might have been expected, 
and the granadoes which were thrown into the town neither 
set fire to a single house, nor killed a single person. They 
had engines, invented by the Rev. Mr. Chillingworth, upon 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 37 

the plan of the Roman tcstudines cum pluteis, which are thus 
described by Dorney : — " They ran upon cart wheeles with a 
blinde of plankes musquet proofe, and holes for four mus- 
quetiers to play out of, placed upon the axeltree to defend the 
musquetiers, and those that thrust it forward ; and carrying 
a bridge before it, the wheeles were to fall into the ditch, 
and the end of the bridge to rest upon our brest-workes, so 
making several compleat bridges to enter the city." Not one 
of these, however, was brought into action, but after the 
raising of the siege, they were drawm triumphantly into the 
town by the soldiers of the garrison.' ' 

The final resolution of abandoning the attempt, is more 
easily explained. " The friends of the parliament saw the abso- 
lute necessity of relieving Gloucester, as the only means of 
supporting their cause : the recruit of the army was too slow 
for the service, and every thing seemed to depend on the 
London trained bands, but for some time it was a matter of 
doubt who should undertake the business. The Earl of 
Essex was at length fixed upon, and that none might decline 
the service upon whom the lot should fall, the shop windows 
were commanded to be shut up, and trading for a time sus- 
pended : the expedition was hastened in every pulpit, and an 
army of 10,000, thus expeditiously raised, marched with 
incredible haste." Essex had with him two regiments of 
trained bands, three regiments of auxiliaries, and a regiment 
of horse, with eleven pieces of cannon, and three drakes, by 
way of reinforcements to his army. 

On the 24th of August, the Earl mustered his forces on 
Hounslow Heath, and then took up his quarters at CoJe- 
brook. On the 26th he marched to Beconsfield, and so 
forward to Beer ton, where he clothed his army. Prince 
Rupert, with the greatest part of the King's horse, drew off 
from before Gloucester, to oppose their march, whilst the 



38 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

King carried on the siege. Scarce a day passed during the 
march without skirmishing, but the royal troops seldom 
gained any advantage. A reinforcement from London joined 
the Earl on the first of September, at the general rendezvous 
on Brackley Heath; and then the whole proceeded on the 
route to Gloucester. The Prince attacked them at Stow, on 
the fourth of September, with 4,000 horse, but the loss on 
both sides was nearly equal. On the 5th, Essex advancing 
to Prestbury Hill, drew up his army in view of the city, and 
there discovered the huts in the King's camp, on fire, and the 
siege raised. " A warning piece was fired, but by reason of 
the contrary winds, the report was not heard, nor did the 
news reach the city that night." A fortunate circumstance 
this for the royal army; since had either the approach of 
Essex been known, or their retreat been discovered, during 
" a tedious march through a tempestuous rainy night," and 
up a steep hill, the rear would probably have been extremely 
harrassed, by a soldiery flushed with success, and indignant 
on account of the difficulties they had experienced during a 
long siege. 

The arrival of Essex at that period was peculiarly season- 
able to the garrison, for " all things were prepared by the 
royal army for a general storm; their ammunition nearly 
consumed, only three barrels of powder left in the magazine, 
and not so much elsewhere;" their provisions also were 
alarmingly reduced, the granary being almost empty. During 
the siege, however, their actual loss was comparatively small, 
not more than fifty were taken or slain, while of the assail- 
ants, on the lowest calculation, a thousand at least were 
killed. 

To the royal cause, the raising of the siege was a fatal 
blow. At this time the public opinion began to waver, and 
the cry for peace was renewed with violence. Crowds of 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 39 

women, says Hume, with a petition for that purpose, flocked 
about the house, and were so clamorous and importunate, 
that orders were given for dispersing them, and some of the 
females w r ere killed in the fray. Bedford, Holland, and 
Conway, had deserted the parliament, and were gone to 
Oxford ; Clare and Lovelace had followed them. Northum- 
berland had retired to his country seat; Essex himself 
showed some dissatisfaction, and exhorted the parliament to 
peace. The upper house had sent down terms of accommo- 
dation, more moderate than had hitherto been insisted upon; 
it had even passed by a majority among the commons, that 
these proposals should be transmitted to the King. By the 
interference, however, of some warm zealots, the thoughts of 
pacification were for awhile suspended, and preparations 
made for the immediate relief of Gloucester, on which the 
parliament was sensible ail their hopes of success is the war 
did so much depend. For it was the only remaining garrison 
possessed by the parliament in these parts, and could that 
have been reduced, the King would have held the whole 
course of the Severn under his command ; " and the granary 
of the kingdom in the heart of his country, on the west 
bounded by the sea, clear through the middle of the land to 
the northern parts, where also the Earl of Newcastle's army 
prevailed ; and, in breadth, reaching from the utmost Wales 
to the London Association, and backed with Ireland, with 
whom an accommodation was then preparing." — Corbett. 
Hume, 

Many attempts were afterwards made to recover the city, 
but without success. After the battle of Newberry, Sir 
William Vavasour was sent to Hereford, with a strong party 
to raise forces in those parts, and a command from the King, 
to distress Gloucester on the Welsh side. About the same 
time, Sir John Wintour, Governor of Newnham, plundered 



40 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

the villages near the city, and afterwards, upon being informed 
that Massie had left Gloucester, with three hundred foot, 
and four score horse, for the purpose of assaulting Beverston 
Castle, advanced towards the city with a considerable force, 
in hopes of surprising it ; the Governor's return, however, 
embarrassed the plan, and they retreated in great confusion, 
These open methods of attack not succeeding, recourse 
was had to others more secret, but less honourable. An 
attempt was made by Lieut. Col. Stanford, to corrupt the 
fidelity of Capt. Backhouse, once his friend and acquaintance. 
For this purpose he wrote him a letter, which was conveyed 
by a confidential friend, wherein he held out the promise of 
the King's pardon, and a very considerable reward, if he would 
deliver the city into their hands. The letter was immediately 
shewn to the Governor, and it was agreed that the Colonel 
should be deluded by a seeming compliance, and a corres- 
pondence was accordingly opened between them. Captain 
William Singleton, an Alderman, and Captain Read, were 
privy to the plan of this illusive negociation. Ten weeks were 
spent in maturing the plot, the terms settled, and at a meeting 
on Corse-lawn, between Stanford and Backhouse, without 
arms or attendants, the latter received two hundred pounds 
in hand, and in part of five thousand he was to receive on 
conclusion of the business. At length, on the fifteenth of 
February, as it had been ageeed upon, the guards were drawn 
off from the further bridge, the sentinels taken in, and a 
messenger was dispatched from Gloucester to the enemy's 
quarters, with the watch-word for their assurance, and some 
private directions for their march up the town ; and Back- 
house himself was to wait at the gate, which he undertook to 
set open, if they came by nine o'clock, or within half an hour 
after. After the messenger was sent off, however, the ports 
were shut up round the city, trusty sentinels set, the Governor 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 41 

called a council of war, acquainted the officers with the plot, 
and gave orders that citizens and soldiers should that night 
continue in arms ,• three pieces of ordnance were drawn to 
the Westgate, and four stout men were placed in a boat under 
the main arch of Over's Bridge, with direction, that upon the 
firing of the first ordnance, they should cut a cable rope, and 
the arch would then fall into the river. Thus far every thing 
seemed to favour the counter project, and the final success 
of it was prevented by an accidental delay on the side 
of the royal troops. " They advanced with their whole 
body of horse and foot, but before they came within a mile 
and a half of the city, it was open day, and thus having lost 
the time by the slowness of their march, they durst not ad- 
vance, but instantly retreated to Newent." Attempts were 
afterwards made to draw them into the snare but without 
effect, as they had received information of Backhouse's 
treachery. 

The last effort made to reduce Gloucester, was by Sir 
William Vavasour, " who having obtained two culverins from 
Oxford, with a proportion of powder, advanced with a strong 
brigade towards Painswick." He made no farther progress 
towards accomplishing the main object, except skirmishing 
with a small guard at Painswick ; either not venturing into 
the vale, where the enemy lay in considerable force, or being 
recalled to Oxford, in consequence of the defeat of Lord 
Hopton, by Waller, on the 29th of March, 1644, between 
Farnham and Winchester. 

The sufferings and losses of the inhabitants of Gloucester, 
during the siege, were very considerable, In a petition from 
the Mayor, Burgesses, and divers hundreds of the inhabitants 
of the city of Gloucester, presented to the supreme authority, 
the parliament of the commonwealth of England, it is stated, 
That in pursuance of the resolves taken to pull clown and 



42 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

demolish the suburbs, two hundred, forty and one houses 
(besides barns, stables, out-houses, gardens, orchards, and 
goods) of the suburbs of the said city, wherein so many 
families lived, wereburned, pulled down, and utterly destroyed, 
the night before the leaguer was laid to the said city, by the 
late King's forces ,* whereby most of the petitioners were 
reduced to most miserable poverty, and the estates of most of 
them much impaired, and the said city in general very much 
impoverished. That their losses by the burning and destroy- 
ing their said houses, amounted to the sum of twenty-six 
thousand pounds and upwards, which they petition may be 
repaired out of the estates of the commonweath's enemies, 
who occasioned the same. 

Besides the actual losses occasioned by the siege, Glouces- 
ter bore a considerable proportion of the expences necessary 
for carrying on the plans of the parliament. 

In 1643, the city and county of it were assessed £62. 10s. 
per week, for the maintenance of the army, and in 1644, 
another assessment of .£10. 8s. 4d was laid on weekly, towards 
the relief of the British army in Ireland, and again in the same 
year, the sum of £ 100. per week was assessed towards the 
maintenance of the forces in the city garrisons and county at 
large, to continue for nine months. 

In 1645, other sums were ordered to be raised upon the 
estates of delinquents for the same purpose, and an imposition 
of forty shillings was laid on every ton of wine, for the main- 
tenance of the garrison. 

The important services performed by Massie, and the gar- 
rison, called forth the thanks of the parliament, whose cause 
they had so steadily supported, and the following rewards 
were voted by both houses of parliament on the 15th of 
September. One thousand pounds to the Governor ; propor- 
tionate largesses to the inferior officers, and a month's pay 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 43 

over and above their arrears to the privates ; and in order to 
preserve the memory of the transaction, the fifth clay of 
September was ordered by the Mayor and Common Council, 
to be annually observed as a day of thanksgiving, which was 
called Gloucester-holiday, and so kept till the restoration. An 
estate of inheritance of £1000. a-year, was also voted to 
Massie, and Sir John Wintour's estates were charged with it ; 
in the mean time £200. per annum were paid him. 

In 1645, the parliament determined on his removal from 
Gloucester, and appointed him Lieutenant General of the 
West, much to the dissatisfaction of the whole city, who 
unanimously petitioned both houses of parliament " for his 
continuance in the government, representing in express 
terms, his noble disposition, constant and unwearied pains, 
blest by God with extraordinary success, and his main in- 
fluence on the hearts of the people in general, most of them 
being by him engaged in arms for the parliament, and upon 
the whole soldiery, who were kept together to serve in this 
country chiefly by the love and respect they bear to him." 
The Parliament, however, rejected their petition, and in- 
formed them, " that they were very sensible of the dangers 
that might attend the alteration in that kind, but that the 
Governor provided to succeed, might speedily give such 
assurance against such dangers, that there will be no cause 
for them to continue, much less to increase their fears ; that 
they were confident that their constant readiness to comply 
with the public, would also in this particular of Colonel 
Massie' s removal, make them rest content in the resolution 
of parliament in that matter. Though Gloucester be a 
place they prize and care for as much as any in the kingdom, 
yet for the present it was thought of greater necessity to 
employ him in that command of the western forces, and they 
cannot doubt of the concurrence and submission of those well 



44 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

affected parts, in whatsoever is judged to be of public ad- 
vantage." Hereupon, on the third of June, by order of 
parliament, the government devolved on Luke Nourse, 
Mayor, Alderman Singleton, and Colonel Blunt, or any two 
of them, till another Governor should come down, or the 
parliament give farther orders. 

In consequence of the change of religious sentiment, which 
took place in the House of Commons about this time, and 
the superior influence of the independents supported by the 
intrigues of Cromwell, it is probable that some little sus- 
picion might attach to Massie, or at least, that he was too 
much a favourite with the inhabitants of Gloucester, to be 
consistent with the future views of the new party. Some- 
thing like this is implied in the concluding paragraph of 
" Corbet's Militar}^ Government, &c." Colonel Massie be- 
seeches the parliament to send down the succeeding Gover- 
nor, that he might seek to interest him in the hearts of the 
people : whom he never desired to endear unto himself, but to 
those masters whom he served, which was a full testimony of a 
true servant to the state, upon the sole terms of conscience and 
honour. 

The subsequent proceedings or disputes of the army and 
parliament, as well as the future conduct of Massie, give 
strong testimony to the supposition. The army were com- 
posed of a majority of independents, under the command of 
Sir Thomas Fairfax, whom Cromwell had contrived by the 
appearance of extraordinary zeal in religion, to manage to 
his own views ; but the parliament was made up principally 
of presbyterians. Among the latter was Massie, and in 
1646-7, when the two houses intended to execute their reso- 
lution of sending forces into Ireland, he was one of the four 
commissioners who were to form the regiments and fill up 
the commissions, and was also named for Lieutenant-Gene- 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 45 

ral of the Irish army, by the parliament. He was probably 
one of those able men of the House of Commons, who at 
that time saw through the designs of the independents, and 
wished to baffle or disappoint them, since in June 1647, he 
was marked as one of the eleven members whom the army 
demanded to be suspended the house, and who did volunta- 
rily suspend themselves by desiring leave to absent themselves 
from the house. He left the kingdom, but, returning, was 
made prisoner at St. James's, whence he escaped Jan. 18, 
1648, and went to the Prince in Holland. In June, 1651, 
he bore the commission of Major General in the royal army, 
which then lay at Worcester, and before the battle of Sep- 
tember 1, he was obliged to abandon the bridge at Upton 
upon Severn, (which he guarded) after a sharp engagement 
with Lambert, a General in the army of Cromwell. After 
the victory obtained by the enemies of the King, at Wor- 
cester, Massie returned among the prisoners of Cromwell to 
London, on the 21st of September, and was committed to 
the Tower, from which he found means to escape. — Rapin. 

In 1659, after the death of Cromwell, when the royalists 
projected an insurrection in several parts of the kingdom, in 
favour of the King, Massie undertook to surprise Gloucester, 
but was taken in the attempt, or soon after, while he lay 
concealed in a small house near Simon shall, belonging to the 
family of Veal, who was a friend to the royal cause, and 
Massie' s relation. The troopers who took him, having been 
intoxicated before they left the place, were unable to keep 
their prisoner secure ; for though he was placed on horseback 
before one of the men, yet in going down Nympsfield-hill, 
Massie being a strong man, and taking advantage of the intox- 
ication of his guards, threw himself from the horse, and made 
his escape by the assistance of a dark and tempestuous night. 

In 1660, he appeared again in parliament, on the restoration 



46 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

of the secluded members, and continued to represent the city 
of Gloucester the two following years, in the last of which he 
appears with the honour of knighthood. The successors of 
Massie in the government of Gloucester, after Col. Blount, &c. 
before mentioned, were Col. Thomas Morgan, in 1645 and 
1647. Also Sir William Constable, in 1648 and 1650, and 
Edward Massie, Esq. again in 1660. — Corp. Books. 

About this time farthings were coined for necessary change. 

One in 1650. In the middle, a man erect with a bow and 
arrow in his hands, and round it Nicholas. LANE. APOTH.* 
On the reverse, N. L. in the middle, and round it, IN 
GLOUCESTER. 1650* 

Another 1651. In the middle, arms, ermine with a chevron 
in the middle, and round it WALTER TAYNTON*. On 

T 

the reverse, ^ p in the middle, and round it IN. GLOU- 
CESTER, 1661. 

Another 1657. In the middle the arms of the city ; round, 
FOR NECESSARY CHANGE. On the reverse, in the 
middle, C.G. round which, LUKE NURSE MAIOR. 1657. 

Another without date. In the middle, arms, supposed of 
Webb, and round it NATHANIEL WEBB* on the reverse, 

OF GLOCESTER. BREWER, and in the middle^ 

Another without date. In the middle a pot on three legs, 
and round it HENORY KNO WLE S. On the reverse, H K 
in the middle, and round it OF GLOCESTER*. 

Another without date. In the middle, the arms of the 
city; round them THOMAS PRICE, MAIOR. On the 
reverse, in the middle, C.G. round which A GLOCESTER 
FARTHING. 

Thomas Price was mayor in 1666. 

Another, with the city arms in the middle, and round 



AFTER THE NORMANS, 47 

them, THE ARMS OF GLOUCESTER. On the 
reverse, in the middle C.G. 1669. Round it, A GLOU- 
CESTER FARTHING. 

In 1657, a letter was received from Oliver Cromwell, with 
an order to the Mayor and Burgesses, to put the city in a 
posture of defence against the cavalier party. — Corp. Books, 

1658. Richard Cromwell was proclaimed Protector the 
6th September, and soon after an address was sent to him to 
petition that twenty pounds of Cromwell's money be given to 
repair the College. — The same. 

1660. Fee farm rents surrendered to King Charles the 
Second, and an address presented on his Majesty's restora- 
tion. In the same year the Duke of Gloucester was made 
Lord High Steward, with five pounds salary, and a piece of 
plate not exceeding ,£100 value. One hundred pounds also 
were presented to the King, with a petition against separating 
the county of the city from the city, without effect, and ano- 
ther hundred in 1662. 

1662. The walls were razed by order of the King. — 
Heathy p. 512. 

1665. Seven hundred and fifteen pounds were charged on 
the city for his Majesty's further support. 

About 1687, King James II. visited Gloucester in his pro- 
gress through the kingdom. — MSS. Life ofFrampton. 

From this period no interesting event has occurred till the 
year 1788, when the city was honoured with the visit of his 
late Majesty, George the Third. The royal family, con- 
sisting of the King, Queen, and four of the Princesses, left 
Windsor on the 12th July, 1788, for Cheltenham, where 
they were received on their arrival by Dr. Halifax, Bishop 
of Gloucester, and other gentlemen of rank and eminence. 
The roads were lined with vast crowds of people, who were 
anxious to testify their zeal and loyalty to a Sovereign uni- 



48 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

versally acknowledged as the father and friend of his sub- 
jects. On the 24th, the whole royal party came to Glouces- 
ter, and alighted at the Bishop's Palace, where a most 
elegant collation was prepared. His Majesty was graciously 
pleased to receive the Dean and Chapter, and as many 
clergy of the diocese as were in the neighbourhood, in the 
Great Hall, where the Bishop addressed the King in the 
name of the whole body, in a short and elegant speech, 
which was answered with a promptness and accuracy 
equally gratifying and condescending. Every one was pre- 
sented individually to the King first, and afterwards to 
the Queen ; and it was remarkable that his Majesty had some 
observation to make to each, applicable to his situation or 
connections. The clergy were succeeded by the Mayor and 
Corporation, attended by the Town Clerk, who addressed his 
Majesty in the name of the body. After these ceremonies, 
the royal party visited the pin manufactory belonging to 
Messrs. Weaver and Co., the Infirmary, and the County 
Gaol then building. At every place his Majesty made the 
most pertinent observations, expressed himself highly pleased, 
and left behind some marks of royal bounty. They then 
returned to the Bishop's Palace, and his Lordship's six chil- 
dren had the honour of being presented to the King and 
Queen, who received them with many compliments. As soon 
as their equipages were ready, the whole royal party returned 
to Cheltenham. The concourse of people in the streets of 
Gloucester was very great, but by the prudent arrangements 
of the civil power, the utmost order prevailed, and the eager 
curiosity of all was gratified without inconvenience to the 
royal personages. On July 27, their Majesties, with the 
Princesses, came to Gloucester a few minutes after ten in the 
morning, and were met by Sir John Guise, Bart, the Duke of 
Norfolk, and the other members of the Corporation, by whom 



AFTER THE NORMANS. 49 

they were escorted to the Bishop's Palace, where the garden 
in front was covered with carpets, and his Lordship's two 
youngest daughters strewed flowers before the royal visitors. 
The Queen was much delighted with the children, and re- 
peatedly caressed them in her arms. After partaking a cold 
collation, their Majesties, at eleven, proceeded to attend 
divine service at the Cathedral. The King was seated in the 
Dean's stall, and the Queen and Princesses in the prebendal 
stalls adjoining. Dean Tucker assisted in the service, and the 
sermon was preached from Matt. xxii. by the Bishop. The 
choir service was the grand composition of King, and was 
correctly and powerfully performed. An anthem, " Let your 
Light," &c, was performed with infinite taste and precision. 
After service his Majesty, as usual, made many observations, 
highly judicious and appropriate, on the internal decorations, 
commending with judgment the parts that were beautiful, and 
noticing the few defects with the critical discernment of an 
artist. Their Majesties returned to the Deanery, and thence 
to the Bishop's Palace, and set out for Cheltenham at two. 
On the 29th the royal party honoured G. A. Selwyn, Esq. 
with a visit, at Matson, where they were entertained in the 
most elegant and sumptuous manner. The loyal zeal which 
pervaded all ranks of people, was highly gratifying to the royal 
feelings, and the amiable condescension of the King, Queen, 
and Princesses, was received by the largest body of people 
that ever met at Gloucester on any occasion before, with 
sentiments of the most sincere gratitude and faithful allegi- 
ance to the best of sovereigns. 

October 5, 1807, the city was honoured with a visit from 
his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. A deputation of 
the Mayor and Corporation had previously attended at Berke- 
ley Castle, where his Royal Highness was on a visit, humbly 
requesting that he would graciously accept the freedom of 



50 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

the city, and honour them with his royal company to dinner. 
In consequence of which he received the freedom in an ele- 
gant gold box at the Tholsey, from the hands of Daniel 
Willey, Esq. Mayor, and afterwards partook of a dinner with 
the members of the Corporation, at the King's Head. 



EARLS AND DUKES OF GLOUCESTER, 

1. Eldol, or Edel, a Briton, is said to have been Earl of 
Gloucester in 461; he was, according to the account of 
Robert of Gloucester, and other historians, a knight of great 
prowess. He attended King Vortigern at the treaty of peace 
at Ambresbury in Wiltshire, to which they were invited by 
Hengist, the Saxon, with the express stipulation that neither 
party should go thither armed; but the Saxons having, contrary 
to their engagement, concealed long knives under their clothes, 
murdered great numbers of the Britons. Eldol is said at 
this time to have exerted himself so powerfully with a stake 
he happened to find, as to slay no less than seventy of the 
Saxons, and after having disabled many more, he escaped to 
Gloucester, his own city. He is also said to have behaved 
with uncommon courage in a subsequent battle, between Am- 
brosius, King of the Britons, and Hengist; when, irritated by 
the recollection of former treachery, he rushed through 
the midst of the Pagan army, took Hengist prisoner, and cut 
off his head. Both these accounts are denied by the Saxon 
historians, and are ascribed by Hume to a desire in the British 
of palliating the weak resistance made at first by them, and 
of accounting for the rapid progress and licentious devasta- 
tions of the Saxons. — Rapin. Hume, Robt. of Glou, 

2. Swaine, or Suane, eldest son of Godwin, had the title 



EARLS. 51 

of Earl in the time of Edward the Confessor. He deflowered 
the Abbess of Leominster, in Herefordshire, and not being 
permitted to marry her, through fear of continuing in Eng- 
land after such an atrocious act, fled to Denmark ; but having 
continued some time there in fruitless expectation of the royal 
pardon, he manned eight ships, and made open war upon the 
English, plundering tne merchants, and committing such 
barbarities on the inhabitants of the; sea coast, as exceeded 
those of the most cruel enemies. He was afterwards par- 
doned, and about 1051, again appeared in arms against his 
sovereign, in support of his father, who was determined to 
punish the Earl of Boulogne, for the injuries offered to the 
inhabitants of Dover. While Swaine was harrassing th« 
coast, Earl Beorn, through the intercession of Godwin, ob- 
tained some favourable concessions from the King on his 
behalf, and went to Swaine, for the purpose of persuading 
him to submit to the King's mercy ; but Swaine suspecting 
that Beorn was come with treacherous purposes, slew him 
with his own hand, and ordered his body to be thrown into 
the sea. Some time afterwards, the Earl feeling compunc- 
tion of mind for the murder he had committed, went from 
Flanders barefoot to Jerusalem, and died on his return, 
either by the hands of robbers, in Syria, or, according to 
Simeon of Durham, of a cold he got in Lycia, in 1053. — 
DngdaWs Bar. Rapin. Sim. of JDurk. 

3. Hailward Snow next held the Earldom, and was suc- 
ceeded by — (Fosbrooke.) 

4. Brictric, who being imprisoned through the influence of 
Maud, Queen to William the Conqueror, lost the title and 
estates appendant to it. This severity of the Queen origi- 
nated in a refusal of Brictric to an offer of marriage she made 
him, when he was on an embassy in Normandy. 

5. Robert Fitzhamon, Lord of Corboil and Thorigny, in 



52 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

Normandy, had the next grant. In the retaking of Falaize, 
in Normandy, he died of a blow received on his temple, and 
was buried at Tewkesbury. He had four daughters, by Sibil, 
daughter of Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Shrewsbury, of 
whom Mabel, Sibel, or Maud, by marriage carried the title 
in 1109, to— 

6. Robert Melhent, bastard son of Hen. I. by Nesta, the 
beautiful daughter of Rhees ap Tudor, or Theodore, Prince 
of South Wales. He is celebrated by all writers as a person 
of superior character for courage, prudence, and learning, 
but most of all for his steady attachment to the Empress his 
sister, during the various disappointments she experienced 
in supporting her claim to the throne of England. He died 
of a fever at Gloucester, Oct. 31, 1147, and was buried in 
the choir of St. James's Priory, at Bristol, which he had 
founded and endowed with his own lands. He left issue, 
William, Roger Bishop of Worcester, Richard Bishop of 
Noyon, Hamon Mabel, wife of Aubrey de Vere, and Ma- 
tilda, of Ranulph, Earl of Chester. — Rapin. sab. ann. 1 147. 

7. William, the eldest son, succeeded to the title. In his 
father's time he was made Governor of the Castle of Warham. 
He had a great contest with one Yvor or Ivor, surnamed 
Bach, a man of little stature, but great courage, who kept 
himself chiefly in the woods and mountains, of which this 
Earl endeavoured to deprive him, or at least to contract his 
limits. Ivor, irritated by this conduct, came in the night to 
Cardiff Castle with his followers, and though the walls were 
of considerable height, and no less than two hundred soldiers 
within, besides archers, he scaled them, and carried off the 
Earl, his Countess, and their young son, into the woods, nor 
were they released till full restitution was made of what was 
wrongfully taken from him. He died November 23, 1173, 
or 1183, and was honourably buried in the Abbey of 



EARLS. 58 

Keynsham, which he had founded, and amply endowed with 
lands, ornaments, and liberties, near to his son Robert, and 
his wife Hawise, daughter of Robert Bossu, Earl of Leicester. 
By this wife he had a son Robert, who died in his father's 
life time, and three daughters, Mabel, Amice, and Isabel or 
Evisa. Mabel married the Earl of Evereux in Normandy ; 
Amice married Richard de Clare, Earl of Hertford ; and 
Isabel was the wife of John, son of Henry II. and afterwards 
King of England. Historians differ much as to the manner 
and even the time when John became Earl of Gloucester. 
It is probable that as the late Earl died without male heirs, 
the title reverted to the crown, and that in order to keep up 
the succession in the family, Henry II. gave it to his son 
John, with Isabel, one of the coheiresses, in marriage. 

This grant does not appear to have been legally confirmed 
in the life time of Henry, though he might bear the title ; 
Richard, however, on his accession to the throne, completely 
invested him with it, and this may account for the intimation 
in the pipe roll 1. R. I. that Richard I. received the rents of 
the manors of the honour before the King gave it to his bro- 
ther John. — Rudder. 

8. John, however, continued Earl of Gloucester during his 
brother's reign. Within two years after his coming to the 
throne, he divorced Isabel, and retaining the Castle of Bris- 
tol and chaces thereto belonging, he sold her for 20,000 
marks to 

9. GeofFry de Mandeville, Earl of Essex, whom he created 
Earl of Gloucester, and gave him the county of Gloucester. 
In consequence, however, of his uniting with the Barons, 
who were in arms against the King, he was excommunicated 
by the Pope, and not long after he was killed by a French- 
man at a tournament held at London, leaving no issue. 
Isabel survived him, and was again married to Hugh de 



54 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Burgh, Justice of England, but had no issue by him; in 
default of which the earldom passed to 

10. Almaric, her nephew, and son of Mabel, one of Earl 
William's daughters, who is mentioned before as having mar- 
ried the Earl of Evereux. He died in a short time without 
children, and 

11. Gilbert de Clare, son of Richard de Clare, who married 
Amice, the other daughter of Earl William, succeeded to the 
earldom, and was the first Earl of Gloucester and Hertford 
jointly, according to Leland, in the year 1216. He was 
among the Barons who opposed King John in the 17th year 
of his reign, and having been excommunicated by the Pope, 
and adhering to Lewis, the French King, was taken prisoner 
at the battle of Lincoln, by William Mareschal, Earl of Pem- 
broke, and carried prisoner to Gloucester. On the return of 
peace, he married Isabel, the third daughter, and at length 
coheiress of that Earl. He was one of the English noblemen 
who invaded Ireland, and subdued it to the crown of Eng- 
land. While he was returning from the Continent, he died 
at Penros, in Britanny, 1230, leaving issue by Isabel, three 
sons, Richard, William, and Gilbert; and three daughters, 
Amice, Agnes, and Isabel ; and was buried in the middle of 
the choir at Tewkesbury. 

12. Richard de Clare, his eldest son, succeeded him, but 
being a minor, he was entrusted to the guardianship of 
Hubert de Burgh, then Justiciary of England. In 1227 he 
took up arms, with other Barons, and joined Prince Richard, 
the brother of Henry III. and husband of the Countess 
dowager of the late Gilbert Earl of Clare, to compel Henry 
III. to restore the charters to the Duke of Cornwall which 
he had lately annulled. In 1246 he was one of those peers 
who subscribed a letter then sent to the Pope, complaining of his 
oppressions, and threatening to do themselves justice, if they 



EARLS. 55 

were not speedily redressed. In 1248 he brought the Augus- 
tine Friars first into England. In 1255 he went into Scot- 
land by the King's order, with John Mansel, the King's 
Secretary, on behalf of the King of Scotland and the Queen, 
sister to Henry, then kept in custody in the Castle of Edin- 
burgh, where, by an artful stratagem, he soon relieved and 
rescued them ; for, leaving his attendants at a distance, he got 
into the castle without opposition, and surprising the guard, 
made entrance for his followers, to effect the business. In 
1257 he was made Commander-in-Chief of all the forces in 
the counties of Glamorgan and Pembroke, and other parts 
of South Wales, to suppress an insurrection of the Welsh. 
About the next year he narrowly escaped death by poison ; 
his brother William lost his life by it. In the same year he 
was chosen by the Barons one of the twelve appointed by 
them for the reformation of the kingdom. In 1260, being 
jealous of the Earl of Leicester, another of the twelve, he 
made a party against him, but was afterwards reconciled, and 
dying in July, 1262, his body was buried on the right of his 
father in Tewkesbury Abbey. 

13. Gilbert, his son, succeeded at the age of seventeen, 
and was commonly called the Red, from the colour of his 
hair. Like his father he made a conspicuous figure in the 
transactions of the long and embarrassed reign of Henry III. 
He joined Simon Montfort, Earl of Leicester, and the other 
mutinous Barons, against the King : he was with them at the 
battle of Lewes, when the King and Prince were taken pri- 
soners : in this battle the King of the Romans surrendered 
to him. This was, among others, the occasion of a quarrel 
between him and Leicester; for the latter, not content with 
his exorbitant acquisitions, applied to his own use the ransom 
of the royal prisoner. In 1265 the arbitrary conduct of Lei- 
cester was carried to such lengths, that Gloucester retired 



56 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

from parliament to his estates on the borders of Wales, 
where Leicester followed him with an army, and brought with 
him the King and Prince to Hereford. Here the Earl con- 
certed with young Edward the manner of that Prince's 
escape, but before he promised his assistance, obliged him, by 
oath, to use his utmost endeavours to restore the ancient 
laws; and to banish all foreigners from about the King's 
person. In the same year he commanded a second brigade 
of the royal army at the battle of Evesham, in which Leices- 
ter and his eldest son Henry were slain. The Earl of Glou- 
cester not thinking his meritorious services sufficiently 
rewarded, took disgust, and instigated the mutinous populace 
of London to arms. Even for this second rebellion the 
King not only pardoned, but soon after received him into 
full favour, and in 1270 gave him livery of all his castles and 
lands which his ancestors had enjoyed. On the death of the 
King, and during the absence of Edward, he was appointed 
one of the regency. On the arrival of the new King in Eng- 
land, the Earl entertained him and his whole retinue most 
honourably for many days in his castle, at Tunbridge, in 
Kent, and again, in 1^85, as the King was going to Snowdon 
by West Wales, soon after the birth of Prince Edward. 
About this time he was divorced from Alice de March, his 
wife, daughter of Grey, Earl of Angoulesme, and about 1289 
married Joan of Acres, second daughter of Edward I. by 
whom he had issue, Gilbert, and three daughters, Margaret, 
Isabel, and Elizabeth. He died at his castle at Monmouth, 
Dec. 1295, and was buried next his father and grandfather in 
the church of Tewkesbury. 

14. Ralph de Monthermer married Gilbert's widow, and 
after some difficulties, in right of that marriage, had livery of 
all the lands belonging to this great earldom, and was sum- 
moned to parliament, from 1300 to 1307 inclusive, by the 



EARLS. 57 

title of Earl of Gloucester and Hertford ; but was never 
summoned by the same titles after the death of his wife, or 
at least after Gilbert, the son of the former Gilbert, came of 
age. 

15. Gilbert was but five years old at the time of his father's 
death ; when he came of age he was summoned, 1309, by the 
title of Earl of Gloucester and Hertford. He was busily 
engaged and highly respected during a short life. In 1311, 
the Earls being assembled at Bedford, he was by them made 
Keeper of England, and in the same year constituted Guar- 
dian of the whole Realm during the King's absence in the 
wars with Scotland, and again Regent in 1313, when the 
King went to France. On the 24th day of June, 1314, in the 
twenty-third year of his age, he was slain at the battle of 
Bannocksburne, and was buried on the left hand of his father 
at Tewkesbury, the place of his nativity. He had only one 
son, who died before him ; and thus the noble Earldom of 
Gloucester, which was formerly called the second pillar of 
England, was divided into three Baronies, and parted between 
this Earl's three sisters ; Eleanor, married to Lord Hugh 
Despencer ; Margaret, first to Piers de Gaveston, and after- 
wards to Hugh de Audley ; and Elizabeth, first to John de 
Burgo, son and heir of the Earl of Ulster, in Ireland ; after- 
wards to Lord Roger D' Amorie. 

16. Hugh Despencer, younger son of the Earl of Winches- 
ter, by marriage, as before mentioned, became the next Earl ; 
but in 1326 being attainted, he was, by the Queen's order, 
drawn on a hurdle through all the streets of Hereford, on St. 
Andrew's eve, hanged on a gallows fifty feet high, beheaded 
and quartered, and his four quarters sent to several places in 
the kingdom, but his head was fixed on London bridge. 

17. Hugh de Audley, the second husband of Margaret de 

Clare, was, bv favour of Edward III. created Earl in Parlia- 
c2 



5S HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

ment in 1329. His castle at Thornbury had been seized by 
the King's order in the late reign, for neglecting to serve 
Edward II. and refusing to come to Gloucester, on the 3d of 
April, 1321, in pursuance of summons, but on account of 
some errors in the prosecution, it was restored in the first 
year of the next reign. In 1340, being with the King in 
France, and one of the Marshals of the English army, he was 
in that part of it which was drawn up for battle at Vironfosse, 
and led by Edward himself. In the year following he was in 
the memorable sea fight before Sluyce, between the English 
and French. After many other scenes of active life, in 
which he was engaged, he died in 1348, leaving issue only 
one daughter, Margaret, the wife of Ralph Lord Stafford ; 
and thus the honour of Gloucester came to the heirs of Lord 
Stafford. Earl Hugh was buried at Tewkesbury, on the 
north side of the high altar. 

18. Lord Audley dying without issue male, the title was 
dormant till the year 1398, when Thomas le Despencer was 
made Earl by Richard II. with the rent of £20 from the 
revenues of the county. About 1398, being attainted, 1. 
H. IV. for conspiring to dethrone the King, he was first 
ignominiously degraded from his title, afterwards adjudged as 
a traitor, beheaded at Bristol, and buried in the middle of the 
choir, in Tewkesbury church. Since him the Earldom of 
Gloucester has not been revived. 



DUKES. 59 



DUKES OF GLOUCESTER. 

1. Thomas of Woodstock, the youngest son of Edward 

III. was created Duke of Gloucester, 9 Richard II. and with 
the title had a grant of £1,000. per annum, to be paid out 
of the customs of several ports. He was appointed to several 
offices of the highest dignity, but being of a fierce, headstrong, 
ambitious, and unquiet spirit, he incurred the hatred of the 
King, by whose privity and procurement, he was privately 
smothered between two feather-beds at Calais, in September, 
1397. 

2. Humphry of Lancaster, the youngest son of Henry 

IV. was created Duke of Gloucester in the Parliament 
holden at Leicester, by the King his brother, in the first 
year of his reign. He was a true friend and patron to his 
country, which he proved himself to be in the prudent ma- 
nagement of the realm during the twenty-five years' mino- 
rity of his nephew Henry VI. By the ambition and malice 
of Margaret of Lorrain, and his uncle the Cardinal of Win- 
chester, he was deprived of his Life, being found dead in his 
bed, on the morrow after he was apprehended, without any 
signs of violence on his body, in 1447. 

3. Richard Plantagenet, younger brother to Edw. IV. 
was shortly after the coronation advanced to the title of 
Duke of Gloucester; too well known for the infamous mur- 
der of the young King Edward V. and his brother, in the 
Tower, and the usurpation of the crown in consequence of 
that event. He was slain in battle at Bosworth field, perish- 
ing there by a fate too mild and honourable for his multiplied 
and detestable enormities. Hume, 

4. Henry, the youngest son of Charles L was declared 
Duke of Gloucester on the 8th of July, 1640, the day of 



60 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

his birth, but was not created till May 13, 1659, by his 
brother Charles II.. After the murder of his father he was 
sent with two servants to Dunkirk, with a promise, it is 
said, of a small allowance for his support, provided he 
would not come near his brother, nor any of his relations. 
On his arrival, however, on the continent, he was con- 
ducted to his mother and brother at Paris. He accompa- 
nied his brother to England on 'he restoration, and soon 
after, on the 30th of September, 1660, died of the small 
pox. His body was buried in the royal chapel of Henry VII. 
at Westminster, and on his coffin was this inscription, on a 
silver plate ; — Depositum illustrissimi Principis Henrici Ducis 
Glocestriae, Comitis Cantabrigiae, filii quarto geniti, serenis- 
simi Regis Caroli (piae semper memoriae) defuncti ; et fratris 
serenissimi Regis Caroli ejus nominis secundi. Qui in aula 
Regia apud Whitehall, die Jovis, decimo tertio die Septem- 
bris, anno a Christo nato, 1660, in Domino obdormivit, 
iEtatis suae vicesimo. 

5 William Henry, only son of George and Ann, Prince 
and Princess of Denmark, was born at Hampton-court, 
July 24, 1689. He was baptized on the 27th following, 
and immediately declared Duke of Gloucester by his uncle, 
King William the Third. He was made Knight of the 
Garter, January 6, 1695, and died of a fever in 1700, in the 
twelfth year of his age. 

6. Frederic Lewis, son of George II. Prince of Wales, 
and Knight of the Garter, was created Duke of Glouces- 
ter in 1718. He was father to his late Majesty, George the 
Third, and died in 1751. 

7. William Henry, second son of Frederick, Prince of 
Wales, and brother to his late Majesty, was born Nov. 25, 
1743, and on the 7th of Nov. 1764, the dignity of Duke of 
Gloucester and Edinburgh was granted to him and his heirs, 



THE CASTLE. 61 

together with that of Earl of Connaught, in Ireland. He 
died August 25th, 1805, and was buried September 4th, in 
St. George's Chapel, at Windsor. 

8. William, only son of the late Duke, succeeded to the 
title. He was born at Rome, January 15, 1776, and is now 
living, an ornament to his elevated rank, and an illustrious 
example of virtue, uncontaminated with the vices of a dissi- 
pated age. 



CASTLE, GATES, AND BRIDGES. 

Gloucester was in very early days a fortified place, and is 
said to have been surrounded with walls by Cissa, second 
King of the South Saxons. — MSS. in Univ. Coll. Ox. 

A Castle was built before the Domesday survey, as appears 
from the following extract : — " There were sixteen houses 
where the Castle now stands." The fee of this was in the 
King, who appointed a constable, an officer of considerable 
consequence in feudal times ; when, however, through suc- 
cessive reigns, the power of the Barons had been put under 
reasonable control, and the reciprocal rights of sovereign and 
people were better understood, this fortress, like others in the 
kingdom, became useless as to its original purposes, and for 
many years served for a county gaol, till the year 1784, when 
an act of parliament was obtained, by which the crown 
relinquished its right, and the old building, which was of very 
great strength, was demolished, and the new gaol built on 
its site. 

Milo was constable of the Castle or deputy governor in 
1139, and it is probable that at the time he so narrowly es- 
caped being taken prisoner on his march from Winchester, 



62 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

114-1, his seal was lost, which was found at the latter end of 
the last century, at or near Ludgershall, county Wilts, and 
was in the possession of Rev. Mr. Selwyn, minister of that 
parish. It was of silver, and had in the middle a man on 
horseback in complete armour, holding a lance, and round it, 
SIGILLUM MIL ONI S de Gloucestria, Archcelogia, Append, 
p. 276, 14 vol. 

King William the Conqueror, having settled the southern 
parts of the kingdom, came to Gloucester, and greatly liking 
the situation of it, as a barrier between England and Wales, 
from which, in those days, it was divided by the Severn, 
caused the north-east and south sides to be fortified with 
battlemented stone walls and gates, to repel the incursions of 
the turbulent Welsh, who had given much disturbance to 
Edward the Confessor. They were afterwards frequently 
repaired, particularly by Sir Thomas de Bradestan, who ob- 
tained a grant of the tolls, or rather the fee farm rent of the 
town, 19 E. III. for that purpose. At various times large 
sums of money were collected under the name of murages, 
by officers called murage-gatherers. In the time of Henry 
VIII. the town was strongly defended by its walls, and so 
continued till the siege in 1643; when, from the Southgate 
to the North Port or Postern-gate, was an ancient wall well 
lined with earth to a considerable height. Thence to the 
Northgate was a slender work raised upon a low ground. 
From the North to the Westgate was no ancient defence, 
but a small work newly raised, with the advantage of marshy 
grounds without, and the same within, from the inner North- 
gate to the Priory of St. Oswald. From the West towards 
the Southgate, along the river side, was no wall; but from 
the Castle to the South Port was a firm and lofty work, to 
command the high ground in the suburbs. The ditches or 
moats narrow, but filled with water. In 1662, the walls 



THE GATES. 63 

were demolished by order of the Commissioners appointed 
for the regulation of Corporations. 

Four principal gates stood in the walls at the end of each 
street, and from their situation received their names. The 
Westgate was rebuilt in the reign of Hen. VIII. in a handsome 
style, and was assigned to the porter who attends on the 
senior Sheriff. 

The Eastgate was for many years used as a house of cor- 
rection, and was assigned to the porter attending on the senior 
Sheriff. It was also used as a school so early as the 57 H. II. 
and afterwards at the beginning of the last century. 

The Northgate stood upon Fullbrook, and served for the 
city prison, till the building of the new city gaol in 1786. 

The Southgate fell down soon after the siege, in conse- 
quence of the injuries it then received. In the same year it 
was rebuilt, and on it was inscribed in capital letters, round 
the arch, on the one side, a city assaulted by man but 
saved by god. On the other side, next the city, ever 

REMEMBER THE FIFTH OF SEPTEMBER, 1743. GIVE GOD THE 
GLORY. 

It is said that the doors belonging to these gates were given, 
by order of Charles II. to the city of Worcester. The East, 
North, and Southgate were taken down when the last im- 
provements were made in the city, and the Westgate has 
shared the same fate within these few years, to make room 
for the new bridge. 

There were other gates of less importance within the city, 
viz. — 

King Edward's Gate, leading into the College Churchyard, 
was built in the reign of Edw. III. and repaired by Abbot 
Parker, but very much injured in the civil wars. It was 
formerly called Lichgate, because it was the place where 
corpses rested, or through which they were carried to the 



64 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

sepulture at the Abbey. In order to open the view from the 
street, it has lately been entirely taken down, with the ex- 
ception of the side walls, which still preserve a memorial of 
its beautiful architecture, and the care of the original designer, 
by a very finely-pointed arch, not to obstruct the sight of the 
splendid and elegant south porch of the Cathedral. This 
arch was removed a short time since. 

In the year 1813, Thomas Gardner, of this city, Esq. on 
building his present residence, near the Cathedral, found a 
stone of very large dimensions, on which were carved the 
arms of Osrick, King of Northumberland, in excellent pre- 
servation, which was afterwards taken away with refuse of 
stone and other materials, and deposited in an obscure part 
of the Cathedral, where it remained, until it was last year 
(1828) discovered by Mr. Gardner, who then obtained pos- 
session of it, and with much good taste had it fixed up in one 
of the beautiful niches of the remaining part of this ancient 
gateway, where it now stands as a very interesting memorial 
of the Founder of the Abbey of Gloucester. 

Lady Bell's Gate (so called from the Lady Bell, who, 
with Sir Thomas Bell, her husband, lived at the Black Friers), 
or the Eastgate of the Black Friers, was a neat building of 
freestone ; it fell down about sixty years since. 

The Posterngate was a small gate between the East and 
Northgates, the design of which is explained by its name. 

The Blindgate, or St. Oswald's Gate, led to the Priory of 
that name. 

Besides these, which were within the liberties of the city, 
were Alvin and Lower Northgate, in the suburbs : the re- 
moval of them all has contributed very much to the conveni- 
ence and health of the inhabitants. 

It was before observed that the walls of the city were razed 
by order of Charles II. in 1662. It was indeed to be expected 



THE BRIDGES. 65 

that care would be taken by the government to prevent for 
the future, as far as could be done, a repetition of that 
obstinate and unconquerable resistance, which had been made, 
under pretence of duty to the Sovereign, but may be ranked 
among the principal events which led to the utter subversion 
of the regal government, the murder of the King, and the 
establishment of an usurped and unconstitutional tyranny in 
the person of Cromwell. The remains of the walls and 
moats are visible on the east side of the city ; in other places 
buildings are erected where they formerly stood, and few traces 
are to be found. 



BRIDGES. 

Westgate Bridge. The old bridge was built by Nicholas 
Waldred, clerk, in the reign of King Henry II. Dame Joan 
Cooke, 31 Henry VIII. gave to the mayor and burgesses £5 
per annum, towards keeping this bridge and the causeways in 
repair. Also, Sir Thomas Bell, 34 Henry VIII. £10 per 
annum, for the same uses. The old bridge being much out 
of repair, it was thought necessary to have a new one. A 
temporary bridge was therefore erected, and a noble structure 
with one arch, is now completed. The width, between the 
rails, is 25 feet. The bridge consists of a single arch, and the 
dimensions are as follows : — span, 87 feet ; height, from the 
level of the springing of the arch, 14 feet 2 inches ; height, 
from low-water mark, 23 feet 4 inches ; extreme height, from 
low-water mark to the footway, 28 feet 7 inches ; breadth, on 
the top, at the centre, 37 feet, and at the two ends, 44 feet. 

New Bridge at Over. This magnificent structure is now 
completed and open to the public ; and, notwithstanding the 



86 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

immense mass of stone embodied in it, amounting to no less 
than eighteen thousand tons, its elegance and lightness are ex- 
tremely striking. It is not only the widest span of any stone 
arch hitherto completed in the kingdom ; but, with respect 
to its form, it is perfectly unique, as there is not another 
in the world erected upon the same principle. The arch 
presents a combination of an ellipsis and a segment of a circle 
gradually worked into each other, and the lower edge is so 
bevilled off, as to form a groin shape from the abutment 
to the centre, and offers to the eye of the spectator the 
difficult method of joining the two figures. To effect this 
object, much additional labour and expence have necessarily 
been incurred, as it must be obvious to those scientifically 
acquainted with the subject, that the course of the quoined 
stones used in the upper edge of the bevil must be worked to 
two different radii, thereby requiring the exercise of great 
nicety and skill. The effect, however, is eminently success- 
ful, in giving a character of airyness and lightness to the arch, 
which would seem to be utterly at variance with its extent 
and the ponderous nature of the materials of which it is 
composed. 

In bridges of one arch it is usual to lighten the spandrills 
by circular islets, which prevent the extremes from being too 
massy for the centres ; but this bevil answers the same pur- 
pose, and has this advantage, that it prevents the lower part 
of the arch being injured by vessels striking against it. The 
bevil describes an angle of 55°. The span at the springing 
of the ellipsis, which is about low water, is 150 feet ; and the 
height, from the level of that point to the underside of the 
soffit, is 35 feet, and from the latter point to the footway, 
7 feet. The segment employed in the arch is a proportion- 
able circle of 450 feet diameter ; and the ellipsis is formed 
upon the three several radii of 18 J, 63, and 144 feet. This 



THE BRIDGES. 67 

description applies solely to the arch. The building, under 
the close and unremitted superintendance of Mr. Cargill, the 
contractor, has been carried on with great expedition ; and 
the bridge, as well as the approaches to it, are executed in 
such a manner as to do that gentleman great credit. The cele- 
brated Rialto at Venice was after a design of Michael Angelo, 
and has always been esteemed a master-piece of art, but its 
span is only 90 feet ; the centre arch of the bridge at West- 
minster has a span of 76 feet ; the one at Blackfriars, 100 
feet; the arches of Waterloo Bridge, 120 feet; those of the 
Pont de Neuilly, in France, 1*20 feet, which sunk 18 inches in 
the middle after the centres were taken away, but the bridge 
at Over sunk only 8 inches. So solidly and well constructed 
is the masonry, that every part is fully and properly sup- 
ported, and there is no false bearing or false joint throughout 
the whole structure. In circular arches, such as those of 
Westminster Bridge, the pressure on the centres, before the 
key stones are put in place, is not near so great as in ellipti- 
cal arches, like that at Over. The scientific manner in which 
this bridge has been constructed is the admiration of all who 
have seen it, and will be a lasting monument of Mr. Telford's 
skill and ingenuity. 

The Author is indebted to Mr. Cargill for the following 
Account of Stone used in building Over Bridge : — Stone in 
squared blocks, from the quarries of Higley and Alveley, in 
Shropshire, used in the Abutments, from their foundations 
up to low-water mark of the Severn, and for the interior 
masonry afterwards, 4,870 tons. — Stone in squared blocks, 
from the Forest of Dean quarries, used for the Arch and 
whole elevation of the bridge, 5,476 tons. — Rubble Stone, 
from the Forest of Dean quarries, used in building the Wing 
Walls of the bridge, also the Retaining Wails at the foot of 
the embankments, 7,871 tons, 



68 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER 

Foreign Bridge consists of seven great arches, and certainly 
received its name from being forinsecus, or without the town. 
Since the contracting of the channel of Little Severn, several 
of the arches have been built upon and hid from view, but 
sufficient now remains in the pointed arches to shew the anti- 
quity of it. Leland mentions it as on the chief arm of the 
Severn. 

Cole Bridge was a little below Bartholomew's Hospital, 
and served, it is said by Leland, "to drain the meads," or 
convey coals to the Hospital. All remains are now de- 
stroved. 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF GLOUCESTER. 

Gloucester is geographically situated at 2° 15' west 
longitude, and 51° 54' 30" north latitude, on an easy descent 
from the centre every way, and on the west and south-west 
to the Severn. It is divided into four wards, denominated 
from the four principal streets, which tend nearly to the four 
cardinal points of the compass, and in every direction are 
wide enough to open a view to the surrounding country. 
These streets are, the Westgate-street, Southgate-street, 
Eastgate-street, and Northgate-street. 

The Westgate-street, or anciently Ebrug-street, extends 
from the Cross to the West Bridge, and is 938 yards long, 
including the Island, which begins at Foreign Bridge. Seve- 
ral lanes branch from the main street on each side. On the 
south side are Mercer's Entry, Bull or Goose-lane, Catherine 
Wheel-lane, New Berkeley-street, Upper Key or Castle-lane, 
the Lower Key or Walker's or Fuller's lane, and Turnstile 
alley. Beyond the Foreign Bridge are no lanes. On the 



- GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 69 

north side, Mary de Grace or John's lane, Trinity or Peter's 
lane, or College-court, King Edward's or Lich, or Lower 
College-lane, Abbey or Three Cocks-lane, Archdeacon or 
Leather-bottle-lane, Dockham or Dock-lane. 

The Southgate-street extends from the Cross to the place 
where the Sauthgate stood, and is 391 yards long. On the 
west side, a passage formerly led to Mercer's entry, but is now 
built upon ; Cross Key-lane, so called from the Cross Key 
sign ; Long Smith, or Old Smith-street, or the School House 
lane, or Bolt-lane ; Sater's lane, leading to the Black Friers ; 
St. Kyneburgh's, or Kimbrose-lane. On the east side, Bell- 
lane, formerly Travail or St. Peter's lane ; Crypt-alley, for- 
merly Mary-lane, Frier's lane, leading to the Grey Friers ; 
Sheep-lane, formerly, now built upon and lost. 

Scriven's Conduit. — " In the Southgate-street," says Mar- 
tin, who wrote in 1759, " stands an old conduit, with a small 
but not inelegant building over it, in the Gothic taste. This 
conduit, with the one at the cross, both supplied with water 
from a spring at Robin Hood's hill, were, till lately, almost 
the only places from whence the inhabitants in this part of 
the town could be supplied with good spring water. On the 
south side was the following inscription :— '. This was erected 
at the charge of Alderman John Scriven, in 1636.' " — The 
whole was taken down about the year 1784, and the conduit 
was removed and is now standing in a piece of ground ad- 
joining to a house belonging to the late Robt. Smith, Esq., 
and now in the occupation of Wm. Griffith, Esq., at the 
beginning of Barton-street. It is of octangular form, sur- 
mounted with a figure of Aquarius pouring water from a large 
jug to supply the conduit. The whole is a very fine specimen 
of Gothic architecture, beautifully executed, and in a good 
state of preservation. It would form a very appropriate 
ornament over one of the wells of our celebrated Spa; and 



TO HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

should this description of it meet the eye of the present public- 
spirited proprietor of this vestige of antiquity, it is not im- 
probable that he will make a present of it to the proprietors 
of the Spa, for that purpose. 

The Eastgate-street, extending from the Cross to the 
place where the Eastgate stood, is 294 yards long. 

This was formerly called Jewry-street, either because it 
was the chief residence of the Jews, or because they had a 
synagogue in the reign of Henry II. and a school in that of 
Henry III. A building still remains on the north side of the 
street, which is supposed to have been either their synagogue 
or school. It is built with pointed arches, and corresponds 
in style to that age. In the course of so many years, the 
ground has been considerably raised above, so that it now 
serves for a cellar or warehouse. This street was also called 
Hailes or Ailes-gate-street, and is so now by old persons. 
Whence the name was derived is not clearly ascertained, but 
the following reasons are given by Rudder : — First, because 
here was anciently a place for the reception of persons who 
had ails and distempers. Secondly, because hail was for- 
merly, as at present, used to signify health, vigour, and 
strength, and as this was a strong gate, it was called, by way 
of eminence, the hailes or strong gate. After all, it may pos- 
sibly be only a corruption of the original name, and greater 
and more unaccountable corruptions of words might be formed. 

On the north side is King's street, running parallel with 
the old wall ; and on the south side, opposite to it, Queen- 
street, extending to Constitution-walk, which is formed by the 
old wall. 

The Northgate-street, extending from the Cross to the 
place where the Northgate stood, is 180 yards. 

On the west side, the upper part was formerly called Cord- 
wainer's row; St. John's lane, connecting with Grace-lane. 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 71 

On the east side, New Inn-lane, formerly Graunt's or Ross- 
lane; Oxbody-lane; Sfc. Aldate's lane, leading to St. Aldate's 
church ; Almesham, Postern, or Sally-gate. 

Beyond the gates, in all, except the Westgate-street, the 
streets continue somewhat farther, to the city-stones. Be- 
yond the Southgate, is Lower Southgate-street ; beyond the 
Eastgate, is Barton-street ; and beyond the Northgate-street, 
is the Lower Northgate-street. There are also the following 
streets and lanes not immediately branching from the main 
streets : — Mary de Lode-street, in St. Mary de Lode-square ; 
Half-street, being a continuation of Three Gocks-lane, to the 
place where the Blindgate stood ; and next to that Water- 
street ; and some of little note in St. Catherine's parish. 
Bareland is a continuation of Long Smith-street to Castle- 
lane. It was probably so called, because at that time it was 
not built upon, as partly appears by an indenture between 
the bailiffs of the town and the butchers and victuallers, by 
which the former grant to the latter "a certain parcel of land, 
near the common Key, extending on the south side, where 
was a post of wood, in a direct line towards the castle, 24 
rods, and 60 rods towards the Barelonde, for the purpose of 
depositing and emptying all 'garbage' and other nastiness 
belonging to the trade of butchery in the said town, paying 
longable or chief rent to the bailiffs." Dated 27 May, 32 
Hen. VI. 1454. 

All cities and town are celebrated more or less for general 
salubrity, but, without being suspected of indulging an un- 
founded partiality, it may justly be said that there are circum- 
stances attached to Gloucester which will justify such an 
opinion. From its elevated situation, (except at the extre- 
mities), which raise it above the fogs of the surrounding 
meadows; from the strong current formed by the violent 
running in of the tide, which brings with it a portion of sea- 



72 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

breeze, and prevents stagnation of vapours and moisture; 
from the excellence of the water, which either rises from 
springs within the town, or is conveyed by pipes from Robins- 
wood-hill ; and other causes not easily enumerated, such kind 
effects are produced that no disease is known peculiar to the 
situation, nor epidemical fevers, which often spread mortality 
in other places. It is worthy of remark, that in the most 
confined situations in the ehy, viz. Leather-bottle-lane, and 
the Magdalen-entry, there are two old women now residing 
and in perfect health, (Elizabeth Yates and Sarah Bower,) 
the first of whom is 104 years of age, and the other 102. In 
the suburbs of the city, Mr. Jackson died a few years since, 
at the age of 104, and his neighbour, Dame Smith, aged 100. 
The vergers of our Cathedral have, as far back as can be 
traced, lived on an average to be upwards of eighty years of 
age. When Bishop Warburton was enthroned, he was shown 
the Cathedral by two vergers, who were so remarkable for 
their superannuated appearance, that he addressed them in 
the following words, " Gentlemen, I suppose you have been 
here ever since the reformation." Mr. Thos. Bright, of 
Longhope, an ancestor of Mr. Bright, the present master of 
the workhouse, died at the patriarchal age of 130 years ! 

It has been much the fashion with tourists to describe 
Gloucester as a dull, heavy place, and it is enough that one 
of these itinerant topographers lead the way, for all the rest 
to tread in the same line of abuse; it is, however, too much 
for the traveller of a day, after having lounged a few hours 
through the streets, and spent as many more at an inferior 
inn, to decide on the character and manners of the inhabi- 
tants. The truth is, Gloucester differs little from other 
places under similar circumstances; whatever amusement 
and spirit depend upon, or are to be derived from, the various 
modifications of pleasureable indigencies, which modern 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 73 

ingenuity has discovered, are to be found in Gloucester suffi- 
ciently abundant. On the whole, Gloucester holds a pretty 
high rank among the cities of England, in all points of view 
which relate to health, comfort, and convenience. The 
county of Gloucester, as well as the city, has always been 
remarkable for its salubrity and the longevity of its inha- 
bitants. 

Gloucester is a city through which there is a prodigious 
thoroughfare; about one hundred stage coaches regularly 
passing through every day. With regard to its police and 
internal management, no place, perhaps, will be found where 
fewer circumstances occur to disturb its peace. The inhabi- 
tants are hospitable and attentive to strangers ; the tradesmen 
civil and obliging ; and the lower classes, in general, orderly 
and industrious. 



Y4. HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

ECCLESIASTICAL 
HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER. 

The first building is said to have owed its erection to 
Wulphere (son of Penda), who was King of Mercia, under 
the Heptarchy. He was an idolater when he came to the 
crown in 658, but afterwards embraced Christianity ; and as^ 
new converts are usually eager in shewing their zeal, he pro- 
bably planned, and even began, the monastery, though it was 
not completed before his death. The foundation was laid in 
672, and Wulphere dying in 675, left the charge of finishing 
it to his brother and successor, Ethelred. By him it was 
entrusted to the care of Osric, his nephew, at that time Vice- 
roy in these parts, and afterwards King of Northumberland, 
who was from hence reputed to be its founder. — Tanner's 
Notitia Monastica. 

On its completion, Ethelred gave the town of Gloucester, 
and many lands in the county, to the monastery, and then, 
growing weary of the world, resigned his crown in 704, after 
which, having been first a monk, and then Abbot of Bardney, 
eounty of Lincoln, he died in 716. — Turner' s Saxon. 

In 682, the monastery was, by the care of Osric, dedicated 
to the honour of St. Peter, and consecrated by Theodore, 
Archbishop of Canterbury, and Bosil, Bishop of Worcester, 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER. 75 

under whose direction and advice it was also appropriated to 
the purpose of taking in nuns. Osric died in 729, and was 
buried in the church of St. Peter, before the altar of St. 
Petronille. His body is said to have been afterwards removed 
into the chapel of our Lady, and in Abbot Parker's time laid 
in a tomb near the high altar. His effigies are cumbent, 
bearing the plan of a church in his hand, with a crown on his 
head, as King of Northumberland. Against the east wall is 
inscribed Osricus Rex primus Fundator hujus monasterii 681. 
The effigies are certainly of older date than the tomb on 
which they are laid, and the obtuse arch, together with the 
arms of Parker and of the Abbey, joined to those of the 
Northumbrians, plainly refer the cenotaph to the reign of 
Henry VIII. This was agreeable to the practice of other 
abbeys, where monuments of this kind were raised in honour 
of their Saxon founders in the later ages of the monasteries, 
as an expression of gratitude. 

Kineburg, a woman of great sanctity, was constituted the 
first abbess. She is said, by Atkyn, to have been sister of 
Osric, also the wife of Alfred, King of Northumberland. 
She is called, in the Saxon annals, sister of Wulphere, and 
she probably had been the wife of one of the Kings of Mercia, 
since it is asserted in the Monasticon Anglicanum, that the 
three ladies who successively presided over this nunnery 
were, or had been, Queens of Mercia. The general account, 
however, of her being the first abbess, is uncontradicted. 
Who, indeed, so likely to have this compliment paid her, as 
the sister of him who first planned the work, or of him who 
finished it ? She held the office about twenty-nine years, 
and on her death was buried near to Osric. — MS$. Frowc. 

Eadburg, widow or sister of Wulphere, was consecrated 
the second abbess in 714, and after having governed the 
society with prudence and piety for twenty-five years, was 



76 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

buried by Wilfred, Bishop of Worcester, near to her prede- 
cessor. 

Eva, probably the wife of Ethelred, succeeded. She, by 
good management, improved the income of the monastery, 
and dying in the thirtieth year of her presidency, was buried 
near to Eadburg. With her the office of abbess died, and 
the monastery became desolate for fifty years. Several rea- 
sons have been assigned to account for this long interval. 
The violation of the nuns, as mentioned by Rudder, during 
the wars of Egbert, King of Wessex, with the Mercians, or 
afterwards during the ravages of the Danes, is not likely to 
be the true one : because Egbert made no attempt on Mercia 
before 819, and the first descent of the Danes upon England 
was in 789, but no impression was made by them on the 
interior of the island till 833. The more probable reason 
may be found in civil wars, and the universal depravation of 
manners which prevailed at that time. — Rapin. Tanner, Not. 
Mon. 

Among the early benefactors to the monastery, are men- 
tioned, Cenred, King of Mercia, and OfFa, King of Essex. 
These princes exchanged their crowns for the monkish habit, 
and having received the tonsure from Pope Constantine, in 
709, conferred many gifts on the monastery of St. Peter. — 
MSS. Frowc. 

In 821, the monastery was re-established, and repaired by 
Bernulph, King of Mercia, for the reception of secular canons. 
He restored to them all the lands that formerly belonged to 
the nuns, and added fifteen hides of land in Standish. From 
this period to the reign of Canute, the Dane, the society 
seems to have flourished in peace and happiness. 

In 862, King Burgred confirmed to it the possession of the 
lands which had been given by his predecessors, Ethelred, 
Ethelbald, Oflfa, Kenwolf, and other benefactors ; and, with 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER, *77 

the consent of his great council, exempted it, with its appur- 
tenances and dependants, from all secular service. From 
this time to the reign of Canute, no records are extant of any 
transactions relating to the monastery, except that in 918, 
Elfleda, sister of King Edward the elder, daughter of Alfred, 
and wife of Ethelred, count of Mercia, having died at Tam- 
worth, county of Stafford, was buried in the east porch of the 
monastery of St. Peter, in Gloucester, and many years after, 
in removing the foundation of the old church, the bodies of 
herself and husband were found entire, and their looks are 
said to have been as graceful as when alive.— Sax. Ann. 
Malmsbury. Rapin. Gougfts Mon. 

In 1022, Canute, at the instigation of Wolstan, Bishop of 
Worcester, turned out the secular canons, and established, in 
their room, regular monks of the order of St. Benedict. — 
Mon. Angl. p. 992. 

The secular clerks had for some time lost their reputation, 
because, instead of devoting their whole time to spiritual 
employments, they gave a part of it to the company of their 
wives, the dalliance of their children, and the cares of a 
family. They lived also in considerable splendour and lux- 
ury, and with their hawks and dogs indulged with little 
restraint in the amusements of the field. This naturally 
excited envy among those who were obliged by their profes- 
sion to submit to the severities of Benedict's rules, and great 
pains were taken to induce a general belief that if the vast 
revenues of the collegiate endowments were transferred from 
the secular clerks into the hands of the monks, a more reli- 
gious use would be made of them. The alteration, however, 
was not effected without considerable discontents, and some 
opposition even on the part of the laity. The nobles, in par- 
ticular, were adverse to the change, under the persuasion that 
the guidance of the church ought not to be wrested out of 



78 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

the hands of the ancient and lawful governors, and that the 
charges of avarice, gluttony, drunkenness, and luxury, which 
had been brought against them by Dunstan, in the reign of 
Edgar, and continued by his successors, were not well 
founded, or at least much aggravated by the partisans of the 
monks. When the monks, therefore, were first introduced 
into the monastery of Gloucester, the magistrates and popu- 
lace discouraged the innovation, and resolved on revenge as 
soon as an opportunity should offer. Wolphin, or Ulfine ie 
Hue, a nobleman of consequence, and at that time (1033) 
Consul, or Chief Governor, happening to meet a party of 
monks on the road between Gloucester and Highnam, at- 
tacked and slew seven of their number. He was sentenced 
by the Pope to maintain, for ever, seven monks in that monas- 
tery ; and for this purpose, his manors of Churcham and 
Highnam, with the meadows, plains, woods, and pastures, 
extending to the Severn, were appropriated. — LelancVs Itin. 
Andlia Sacra. 

The old church, built by Osric, stood a little to the north 
of the present building, on or near a place since called the 
Infirmary, as having been used by the Abbey for the reception 
of the sick and infirm. 

This was burnt down soon after the establishment of the 
monks ; and as mankind are fond of ascribing to the inter- 
position of heaven those events which favour their own 
notions, the following remark has been made by a zealous 
opposer of the monkish system : — " They were men blinded 
with utter darkness, and insensible of all christian duty, hard- 
ened against all virtue and godliness ; therefore God, who is 
jealous of his own honour, permitted the devouring flames to 
consume all the buildings of the monastery, and to level it to 
the ground." The demolition, however, was probably not 
completed by the fire, because it is said, that the decayed old 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER. 79 

part of it was pulled down by Aldred, in the time of Edward 
the Confessor. Aldred, at that time Bishop of Worcester, 
and afterwards Archbishop of York, laid the foundation of a 
new monastery, or as it was then called, new minster, some- 
what nearer the town than it stood before. This building 
was finished in the month of October, 1058, and consecrated 
to the honour of St. Peter. The benedictines were now 
established, and the rules of the order fixed. — Man. Ang. v. i. 
p. 993. 

Archbishop Aldred seized upon the manors of Lech, Oding- 
ton, Standish, and Berton, and retained the possession of 
them a few years, for the purpose of reimbursing the money 
he had advanced in the new building. His successor, how- 
ever, Thomas, Archbishop of York, restored them in 1095, 
publicly in the chapter, in the presence of Serlo, the abbot, 
and the other members of the monastery, with many expres- 
sions of sorrow for having so long detained them from their 
right owners. 

In 1072, William the Conqueror, having kept his Christ- 
mas at Gloucester, repaired and enlarged the monastery. At 
this time there were only two monks of age, and eight scho- 
lars, (in consequence, probably, of so large a spoliation of its 
revenues by Aldred); in 1104, however, they were increased 
to a hundred, by the diligence and zeal of Serlo, aided by his 
own donations, and divers grants of lands, liberties, and con- 
firmations, which he obtained from William the Conqueror, 
William II. Henry I. and other great men. 

In 1088, the church and monastery were burnt down, and 
on the festival of the apostles Peter and Paul, 1089, the 
foundation stone of a new church was laid by Robert, Bishop 
of Hereford. — MSS. Frowc. 

In 1100, the church which the Abbot Serlo had built from 
the foundation, was dedicated with great solemnity, on the 



80 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

ides of July, by Sampson, Bishop of Worcester, Gundulf, 
Bishop of Rochester, and Harvey, (called Henricus in the 
Monasticon,) Bishop of Bangor. — MSS. Frowc. 

1101. On the 8th of the ides of June, the Abbey suffered 
a great deal from fire, but the church probably escaped better 
than in 1088.— Leland. MSS. C.C.C. lib. Ox. Frowc. MSS. 
Sim. Dunel. 

1 104. The Abbey was encompassed with a strong wall by 
the assistance and consent of Henry I. ; and the convent 
was enriched with a valuable collection of manuscripts from 
Abbot Peter; and about the same time the donations made 
at different times to the society were confirmed by King Ste- 
phen. — Rot. Cap. MSS. Frowc. 

1122. At a synod held at Gloucester, Curboil, Abbot of 
St. Bennett's, was elected Archbishop of Canterbury. Sax. 
Ann. — On the 8th March, in the same year, while the monks 
were singing mass, and the deacon had begun the gospel, the 
tower was set on fire by lightning, and the whole monastery 
burnt, with all the valuable things therein, except a few 
papers, and three priests' vestments. — MSS. C.C.C. lib. Ox. 

1134. Robert Curthose, Earl of Normandy, was buried 
before the high altar. 

1150. The Archbishop of York renewed a claim to the 
manors which had formerly been kept by Aldred, by way of 
mortgage for the expences he had incurred, and afterwards 
solemnly restored to the Abbey by Thomas. Abbot Ham- 
meline went to Rome, and obtained an order from the Pope, 
to have it referred to the Bishops of Chichester and Lincoln, 
who decreed in favour of the Abbey, and Stephen confirmed 
it: however, in 1157, to prevent any future controversy, 
Oddington, Condicote, and Shurdington, with certain lands, 
were given to the Archbishop, who, on his part, with the 
assent of his chapter, and a general synod, renounced all 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER. 81 

claim to the rest. This agreement was confirmed in or about 
the year 1164, by a bull of Pope Alexander III. in which it is 
observed, that the controversy about this matter had been 
agitated before his predecessor Adrian, who appointed the 
Bishops of Salisbury and Bath to act as delegates in this 
matter. 

1179. On the 11th March, the Abbey was again burnt, and 
afterwards in 1190, when all the workshops on the south side 
of the Abbey, and two churches, namely, that before the gate 
of the Abbey, and the walls of St. Oswald, were much 
injured. — Froivc. MSS. 

1-214. It experienced great injury from lightning, and again 
in 1223. 

1222. The tower of the church which had fallen down was 
begun to be rebuilded, under the direction of Helias the 
sacrist. — Frowc. MSS. 

1224. Ralph de Willington, and Olympias his wife, built 
the Lady's Chapel, (not the present one) in the church-yard 
of St. Peter's, for two foreign priests and a clerk to attend 
them, and erected a house within the precincts of the Ab- 
bey for their habitation. They gave lands of the yearly 
value of £8. 7 s. for their maintenance and support ; where- 
upon the Abbot and convent, extolling their great liberality, 
covenanted with them to keep all the buildings in good re- 
pair, and allow the chaplains a sufficient corody ; that every 
year on the day of Ralph's death this agreement should be 
- read before the brethren ; and he, Olympias, and all their 
ancestors and successors, in full chapter should be absolved, 
and made partakers of all the good works done in the Abbey, 
and in the churches pertaining to it; that on the same day 
every year the service should be performed as fully as for a 
monk; and that this agreement might continue inviolable, 

the convent in full chapter pronounced the blessing of God 
d2 



82 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

to all those that keep it ; and his curse, as far as it lay in 
their power, to the violaters thereof. 

1237. Helias having before built the stalls, made an aque- 
duct to supply the Abbey with water, and vaulted part of 
the church. 

1242. The vault in the nave of the church was finished, 
and a new tower on the south side of the west end was be- 
gun. — MSS. Frowc. 

1246. The west tower on the south front was finished; 
the old refectory was taken down and a new one begun ; 
at this time also, the mill near the Vineyard was built from 
the foundation by Abbot John de Felda. — MSS. Frowc. 

1251. The Abbey had contracted a debt of three hundred 
marks, in consequence of which, the Bishop of Worcester, 
to whom they had applied for relief, excluded and forbad the 
reception of strangers, and retrenched the hospitality of the 
Abbey.— MSS. Frowc. 

1263. The debt was increased to fifteen hundred marks, 
which was in some measure relieved by Edward I. who in 
1272 took the Abbey under his protection, and appointed a 
commissioner to carry his grant into effect, and keep all per- 
sons from damaging or molesting the Abbey. Soon after the 
same King rebuilt a gate on the south side of the Abbey, 
which was then called Lichgate, (or gate under which corpses 
were rested in their way to the church-yard for burial,) but 
in after times, King Edward's gate. — Atkyns. Prinne's Intol. 



1264. The Abbey received considerable damage from the 
contentions of the King and Barons. Prince Edward had 
taken the Castle from the Barons, who were in the town of 
Gloucester, but by the interference of Abbot de Homme and 
Walter de Cantelupe, Bishop of Worcester, a truce was 
made between the contending parties. — Rob. of Ghu. p. 343. 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER. 83 

1265. Abbot Reginald de Homme was summoned for the 
first time to Parliament. The Barony was held solely of the 
King, and continued to the dissolution of the monastery. — « 
Dugdale Mon. 

1283. Thirteen monks were elected from this convent to 
be instructed in learning in the new college, called at that 
time Gloucester College, afterwards Gloucester Hall, now 
Worcester College, in Oxford. On the feast of St. John 
the Baptist, agreeably to the will of John Giffard, Baron of 
Brimpsfield, the founder, Abbot Homme, was introduced in- 
to it. Three or four monks were maintained in this college 
at the expence of the Abbey, who allowed them fifteen marks 
per annum each, and appropriated the church of Chipping 
Norton, county Oxford, for their support. — MSS. Froivc. 

1300. A fire suddenly surrounded the monastery on Epi- 
phany day, which consumed the belfry and great chamber, 
with some adjoining buildings. — MSS. Frowc. 

1303. The old dormitory was taken down, and a new one 
begun, which was finished in 1313. — Willis Mit Ab. 

1319. The South aisle was rebuilt. About the same time 
Edward the Second came to Gloucester, and was entertained 
by the Abbot and convent with all due honours. While he 
was sitting at table in the Abbot's hall, and observing the 
pictures of his royal predecessors, with which the room was 
decorated, he enquired of the Abbot whether his picture was 
among them. The Abbot answered, with a kind of prophetic 
spirit, that he hoped he should have him (the King) in a 
more honourable place than here, as it turned out. For after 
the King's murder, when the neighbouring monasteries of 
Bristol, Keynsham, aud Malmsbury, refused to receive the 
royal corpse, through fear of Roger Mortimer and Queen 
Isabel, Abbot Thokey brought him from Berkeley Castle in 
his own carriage, ornamented with the arms of the Abbey, 



84 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

to the Monastery of Gloucester, where he was received by 
the members of the convent in procession, and buried in the 
north part of the church, near the great altar; a proceeding 
this, which secured almost incalculable advantages to the 
monastery. For Edward the Third, in the second year of 
his reign, in consideration of the great expences which had 
been incurred by the Abbey in his father's funeral, granted, 
That upon every vacancy of the Abbey, they should com- 
pound with the King at the rate of a hundred marks for the 
space of a year; but that all Knights' fees hoi den of the Ab- 
bey, escheats, and presentations to their churches, which 
should fall in the time of the vacancy, should belong to the 
King. The Prior, as president, and the Convent, should 
keep the Abbey in safe custody till another person was ap- 
pointed thereto. The Escheator or the Sheriff, upon a 
vacancy, to make only simple seisin within the Abbey and so 
to depart. The same King also, in the tenth year of his 
reign, granted to the Abbey, the hundred of Dudston, near 
Gloucester, with all its emoluments and appurtenances at 
the fee-farm rent of twelve pounds per annum. — Rapin. Willis 
Mit Ah. MSS. Frowc. 

So great were the offerings made by the numerous pilgrims, 
who resorted to the tomb of Edward for the purposes of de- 
votion, that many parts of the church were rebuilt or beauti- 
fied, and it is supposed that they were sufficient to have 
enabled them to rebuild the whole church. The King him- 
self, attended by his royal consort, Prince Edward, and 
several nobles and gentlemen, made a solemn visit to the 
tomb, at which they presented a ship of gold, and another 
ship, which, at the entreaty of the Abbot, was redeemed at 
the price of a hundred pounds. The Prince offered a cross 
of gold, having in its composition a part of the great cross 
and a ruby. To these the great vault of the choir, the stalls 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER. 85 

on the Prior's side, and other parts of the building owe their 
present beauty and elegance ; and the Vineyard house, which 
was destroyed on the great rebellion of 1648, was also built 
out of the same fund: and yet, notwithstanding these great 
expenditures, Abbot Staunton left at his death in the trea- 
sury a thousand marks. 

1329. The Abbot's chamber, which had been burnt down 
in 1300, was built near the garden of the Infirmary, by Wig- 
more, while he was Prior; and about the same time St. 
Andrew's aisle was built. — MSS. Chron. MSS. Frowc. 

1378. A Parliament was held here, when the King and 
his court were lodged in the Abbey. The Lords assembled 
in the common hall ; the secret council of the nobles in the 
chamber, which for its elegance was called the King's, and 
the common council of Parliament in the Chapter-house. 
High mass was performed in the choir by the Abbot, under 
the King's directions, at which were present the King, two 
Archbishops, twelve Bishops, the Duke of Lancaster, with 
his two brothers (the Earl of Cambridge, and Earl of Here- 
ford) and many of the nobility and gentry. — MSS. Frowc. 

1380. There were fifty-four monks in the convent, with 
•200 officers or servants; the yearly income was 1,700 marks. 
The revenue being much lessened by unusual inundations, 
pestilences, and other calamities, and continually frequented 
by guests, foreigners and natives, the expences were so much 
increased as to require the appropriation of St. Mary de Lode 
to defray them. — MSS. Froivc. 

1381. Pope Urban, by the interest of the Duke of Glou- 
cester and others, granted to the Abbot and his successors 
the mitre, ring, sandals, and dalmatic ; and also the right of 
giving the solemn benediction at vespers, matins, and at table, 
if no bishop or legate of the apostolic see were present. 
About the same time the great cloisters were built. 



86 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

1422. The west front, south porch, and two western pillars 
of the nave were erected. 

1429. The lane under the south wall of the Abbey was 
granted to the bailiffs and burgesses of the city by com- 
position. Their Serjeants were empowered to carry their 
maces before the bailiffs in the Abbey; and the bailiffs or 
their Serjeants might execute any of the King's writs, sum- 
monses, &c. within the Abbey, except upon the Abbots, 
Monks, their domestic servants or counsellors. — Ancient 
copy in custody of the Abbey. 

1430. Henry VI. came to the Abbey previous to his set- 
ting out for France, and made an oblation. — Scac. Cap. 

1447. By composition made between the Abbey and bailiffs, 
the latter, with the burgesses, were to have free common, and 
dig earth in the common ham; and to have the use of the wa- 
ter of Fulbrook, at the upper north gate, of the lane under 
the south wall of the Abbey, and of the two water-mills at 
the Westgate; and the Abbey to enjoy the stone wall, within 
fifteen foot of land in breadth within it, from St. John's 
church-yard to the Blind Gate. — Scac. Cap. 

About or soon after 1456 the old tower was taken down 
and the present one begun. — Willis Mitr. Ab. 

About 1460 the present lady's chapel at the east end of 
the choir was begun to be built. 

1499. During the vacancy, the behaviour of the'monks was 
so disorderly and contentious in making interest for the 
Abbacy, that the King directed a mandate to the Prior, as 
president of the Abbey, to punish all the offenders, and to 
keep the Abbey in due order during the vacancy. The elec- 
tion to be examined according to law by the King's council. 
— Willis Mitr. Ab, 

1510. The same disorderly conduct prevailed among the 
monks in the time of the vacancy ; on this occasion the Abbey 
obtained a conge d'elire. 



ABBEY OF ST. PETER. 87 

1512 and 1513. The divisions between the Abbey and the 
town on account of common, which was said to be withholclen 
by the Abbey and its tenants, were so great, that nearly two 
hundred of the townsmen assembled and wounded some of the 
servants belonging to the monastery : in consequence of this 
the Mayor was ordered by the King's privy council to sup- 
press these disturbers, under the penalty of appearing at the 
Star Chamber, of paying ,£100, and forfeiting the liberties of 
the town, and to preserve quietness till the dispute should be 
determined. 

1514. An agreement was made between the town and the 
Abbey, by award of the Abbot of Winchcomb, the Prior of 
Lanthony, and others. — Book belonging to the city. 

1518 and 1519. This affair was again agitated and new 
agreements entered into, and an award made relative to the 
tenants of the Abbey at Maisemore. — The same. 

1525. Cardinal Wolsey, by his commissary, Dr. Allen, 
exercised a legantine visitation in the Abbey, when their 
yearly revenues, according to common account, amounted to 
£1,022. 15s. Id., and the Abbey acknowledged themselves 
indebted to the Cardinal in £40. lis. 6d. 

1531. The clergy of the kingdom having on indictment in 
the King's Bench been convicted of breaking the laws of the 
realm, and by sentence of the court declared to be out of the 
King's protection, and liable to the pains in the statute of 
praemunire, for having acknowledged the legateship of Wol- 
sey, were contented to give the King £100,000. to obtain 
their pardon. Of this sum the Abbey of Gloucester paid 
£500. as their proportion. — Stoive's An. 

1540. On the second of January, the Abbey was surren- 
dered by Gabriel Moreton, the Prior, and the monks, under 
the conventual seal. The revenues amounted at the time of 



88 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

its dissolution to £1,946. 5s. 9d. per arm. — Dugd. £1,550. 
4.?. 5%d. — Speed. Or in clear money, £1,430. 4s. 3c?. — Na- 
smith's Tanner. 

Out of the revenues the following pensions were assigned : 
To ^Gabriel Morton, the Prior, £20.; to Edward Bennet, 
late receyvour, £20.; Thomas Kingswood, £13. 6s. Sd.; 
William Morwent, Edward Wotton, John Wigmore, eham- 
berer, Walter Standley, £10. each; * Thomas Hartland, 
hosteler, * Humphry Barkeley, Richard Anselm, kitchener, 
£8. each; * William Newport, £6. 13s. 4c?.; William Augus- 
teyn, £6. ; Thomas Lee, professed and no priest, * William 
Symes, alias Deane, 100 sol. each. Those whose names are 
marked with an asterisk continued without preferment, and 
received their pensions in 1553, and at the same time the 
following pensions were paid to others who were sometime 
monks here. To Thomas Saybroke, £13. 6s. Sd. ; John 
Terris, alias Clyfford, £10.; William Burford, £8.; Chris- 
topher Horton, £6. There remained also £32. 19s. 4c?. in 
fees, and £69. 13s. 4c?. in annuities, charged on the revenues 
of the late Abbey. 



THE CATHEDRAL. 89 



ECCLESIASTICAL BUILDINGS. 



THE CATHEDRAL. 

This beautiful and magnificent structure was the work of 
several periods, which are in general clearly marked by the 
varying stiles of architecture, and ascertained by existing 
records. The original foundation and progressive alterations 
have been cursorily noticed in the account of the Abbots ; 
we shall now proceed to a more minute analysis of the several 
parts, and for the sake of perspicuity shall begin with those 
which bear the marks of the highest antiquity. 

Of the original monastery founded by Wulphere, and 
finished by Osric under the direction of Ethelred in 682, no 
vestiges are now to be traced ; and but a few probably of the 
building erected by Aldred in 1058. Some antiquaries of 
high reputation suppose, that the nave and undercroft are of 
the original erection by Aldred ; the following reasons, how-, 
ever, offer in favour of a contrary opinion, that the church 
built by Abbot Serlo, in 1089, was entirely new. 

First, — Florence of Worcester, says, that Sampson, Bishop 
of Worcester, with Gundulph, Bishop of Rochester, and 
Harvey, Bishop of Bangor, dedicated the great church at 
Gloucester, which the Abbot Serlo had built from the founda- 
tion. 

Secondly, — The church begun in 1089, and finished in 
1 100, was eleven years in building, which was a long period, 



90 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

if the nave and undercroft, or the whole building from the 
altar to the last pillar but one of the nave, remained entire 
after the demolition occasioned by fire in 1088, which is said 
to have consumed the church and monastery; since Wulstan 
began the church of Worcester in '1084, and finished it in 
1089. 

Thirdly, — Although some specimens of Norman building 
might have been produced a little time before the conquest, 
owing to the communication of the English with the Normans, 
and the partiality which Edward the Confessor shewed to 
their customs and manners, yet it can hardly be supposed 
that the increased dimensions of the Norman style would be 
so fully adopted at Gloucester, even before the King himself 
had set the example at Westminster. The old church at 
Westminster, was dedicated on the 28th of December, 1065, 
and, as Bentham observes, probably served as a pattern to 
the builders, and produced an expensive emulation at other 
places ; but it is hardly credible that Aldred should raise a 
fabric in imitation of another probably not begun, certainly 
not finished at the time. Bentham instances Gloucester 
Cathedral as built about the same time with Westminster, 
and says, that part of it is still remaining. In the fourth 
volume of King's Munimenta Antiqua, it is considered as 
probable, that the little arches as well as the great arches and 
pillars beneath, were a part of the old original work reared by 
Osric in 681 or 682, at the same time it is allowed that the 
ornaments of the arches have just the same indented zig-zag 
mouldings that were so prevalently in fashion all over the 
kingdom in Guldulph's and in Serlo's time; but to account 
for this, it is conjectured that they were thus ornamented 
afterwards in Serlo's time. In fact, however, if any part of 
Aldred's church be now standing, the whole is also; for the 
same circular arches and the same massive pillars are found 



THE CATHEDRAL. 91 

from the second pillar near the west door to the full extent, 
where it connects with the Lady's Chapel, though in the choir 
the}' are concealed from view by a stone casing of more mo- 
dern date. The great characteristic difference between the 
Saxon and early Norman styles lay in the magnitude of their 
buildings. The form of both was nearly the same, and though 
the Saxon were in some instances finished with some elegance, 
they were, however, inferior in size, and generally destitute 
of the double or treble range of pillars and arches, and other 
additions, demonstrative of more magnificent ideas and im- 
proved conceptions of symmetry in the relative proportions 
of height, length, and breadth. The precise date indeed of a 
religious edifice cannot be ascertained from the form of its 
arches, for though semicircular arches, with capitals rudely 
ornamented, are distinguishing characteristics of that style of 
architecture which was in use before the conquest, yet it does 
not follow that all buildings, where this style prevails, were 
of that sera, because the Normans retained the same, differing 
only in size and workmanship, till about the middle of Henry 
the First's reign, (1117) or even later, when the pointed arch 
began to be generally adopted. 

Fourthly, — If the nave, north aisle, and the chapels round 
the choir, with the whole original substruction, according to 
Mr. Dallaway, were of Aldred's building, what part belongs 
to Serlo ? and it is evident from all historical writings, that a 
great deal, if not the whole, arose under his patronage, and 
the dedication of the new church, built by him, is expressly 
recorded, as was before observed. 

Hence I am disposed to believe, that no part of the present 
church is of Aldred's building, or even stands on the same 
site with it, but that Abbot Serlo, in strict language, raised it 
afundamentis. At the same time it is probable, that the pre- 
sent Library, without the additional part on the west, and 



92 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Treasury on the east side of the Cloisters, were erected in 
the time of Aldred. The former was anciently used as the 
Chapter-house to the Abbey, and was certainly standing in 
1085, if, as it is asserted, Walter de Lac}^, who attended the 
Conqueror in his expedition, was buried there in that year. 
This nobleman was accidentally killed by a fall from the bat- 
tlements of St. Peter's, in Hereford, which he had just 
finished, and the date of the event is precisely ascertained, 
A.D. 1085, obiit Walter us de Lacifundator Sci Petri Hereford, 
6 Kal. April, cujus corpus apud Glocestriam in capitulo honorifice 
sepelitur, tempore Serlonis Abhatis. — JMonast. Angl. 

It is perhaps difficult to determine the exact spot where the 
old building of Aldred stood, but it seems not improbable that 
the principal western entrance to that or the monastery, was 
through the fine Saxon arch leading from the front of the 
Deanery into the Great Cloisters, parallel with the present 
Choir. This idea is somewhat confirmed by the opinion of 
Furney, that Archbishop Aldred' s church stood on part of 
what is now called the Grove. 



THE CRYPT OR UNDERCROFT. 

That this kind of substructions is of high antiquity, is un- 
questionable, but what was their peculiar destination or 
intention has created much difficulty and dispute. It has 
been thought, that they were intended to preserve the memo- 
rial of a practice, which from necessity prevailed among the 
primitive Christians, who being exposed to persecution in con- 
sequence of an open profession of their religion, were obliged 
for safety to assemble in caves and vaults, subter terram ; the 
remains of which are still to be traced in the famous catacombs 



THE CATHEDRAL. 93 

of Rome. In these, it is said, they used to assemble at their 
devotions, bury the bodies of their martyrs and confessors, 
and frequently hold their councils. It has also been conjec- 
tured that crypts were the remains either of Saxon or British 
churches, and that they have been embosomed within the 
present structures, from a veneration of their having been the 
places sanctified and consecrated to God, by the piety and 
devotion of their forefathers, in the first ages of Christianity. 
Green's Worcester, vol. 1, p. 38. But, after all, may not the 
following more simple conjecture be equally satisfactory? 
The presbytery, including the chancel, of all cathedrals, I 
believe, is ascended by several steps, which furnished an easy 
opportunity of making a subterraneous building, either for 
the purpose of interment, or to gratify the warm feelings of 
those severer members of the church, who might be devoted 
to a more solitary and abstracted devotion, than what they 
could perform in the public offices with the congregation. 

The substruction of this Cathedral has no appearance of 
workmanship anterior to the upper building. The arches are 
semicircular, and the pillars round; the vaulting is strong, 
plain, and unornamented ; the form corresponds with the 
building above, the pillars of which exactly rest on the centre 
of the pillars below, and are supported by them : there is 
also an equal number of chapels ; and the dimensions of the 
whole are similar, except in the trifling variation produced by 
the greater width of the exterior walls. On one of the 
arches is an indented or zig zag moulding, and in one of the 
chapels is a receptacle for holy water, and a colonnade 
resembling that which is seen over the arches in the nave of 
the Cathedral. These chapels were probably in early times 
furnished with altars, and dedicated to particular saints ; but 
no memorials or traces now remain of either. The following 
extract from Pat. 14 Edward II. p. 2, or 13, — " Pro eccles. 



94 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

de Haitherop appropr. ad inveniendos Capellanos in < le 
charnel house' construct, per Petrum Fox in cemiterio Abba- 
tiae," has no relation to the Abbey of Gloucester, but either 
to that of Cirencester, or more probably to the nunnery of 
Lacock, in Wiltshire. The bones which are collected from the 
opening of graves and vaults in various parts of the Cathe- 
dral, are now deposited here, and hence it is denominated the 
bone-house. The entrance is by a door near the north-east 
angle of the south transept. 



THE NAVE 

Is entered by the west door, and presents to the eye a scene 
of great sublimity and grandeur, the appropriate character- 
istics of the Norman style. The particular objects which first 
arrest the attention are the large circular pillars which on 
each side separate the nave from the aisles. They are four- 
teen in number (the first pair being about forty feet from the 
west door), and measure in circumference twenty-one feet 
four inches. Semicircular arches, of about eleven feet six 
inches diameter, connect them at top ; these are adorned with 
dentils and zig-zags on the mouldings. Over the pillars on 
the north side are a tiger's head, two females, a meagre nun, 
a man with flowing hair, another exhibiting a horrid grin, a 
mask with a tonsure, and a nun. On the south, a monk, 
another bald, a youth, a cadaverous head, another nun, two 
anchorites, and a terrific mask. These heads serve as brack- 
ets to sixteen clusters of short pillars, whose capitals are 
enriched with foliage of great variety. Those support a zig- 
zag string, on which rest the bases of other pillars, five in 
each cluster, with capitals of transcendant beauty. — Malcolm. 
Six of the eastern arches spring from the capitals of the 



THE CATHEDRAL. 95 

lower range of short pillars, and each of these have heads, 
supporting slender columns for the ribs of the vaulted roof. 
Above every great semicircle are pierced windows to the 
galleries, divided by thick pillars, and bounded by others with 
zig-zag arches. Between those and the plainer clerestory 
windows, is a twisted string. The vault was finished in 1242, 
and consists of arches but little ornamented, except in the 
key stones, which are richly sculptured. At the same time 
were put in, the clerestory windows, pointed and finished on 
the outside with canopies, which were not introduced till 
the latter end of the twelfth, or early in the thirteenth 
century. 

The nave originally extended westward about ten feet and 
a half beyond the last circular pillars ; the remaining part, as 
it now appears, was built in 1422, by Abbot Morwent. The 
two pillars which support this new structure, differ much in 
style from the others, being lighter in their appearance and 
more ornamented. It is obvious that the connecting arch 
between the modern and ancient pillars was originally semi- 
circular, but on this occasion altered to the pointed form. 
The line of the old arch is now evident, and the centre of the 
new one rises above and breaks the string which separated 
the arches from the gallery. These two pillars were not the 
old circular ones, fluted by Morwent, as Rudder supposes, 
but certainly raised anew from the ground, as evidently appears 
from the courses of masonry, not at all corresponding with 
the ancient work. The vault of the nave, as it originally was 
built, was finished in 1242, and retains in a great measure the 
simplicity of that sera ; the modern addition is more diver- 
sified by interesting ribs, rosettes, and tracery : as likewise is 
that of the south aisle, which was built in 1318. The win- 
dows are highly ornamented, and exhibit a fine specimen of 
the increasing richness of the pointed style. The north aisle 



96 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

appears, by the form of the windows, to be coeval with Serlo's 
building. The south porch and door-way were built at the 
same time with the west door ; when the tabernacle ornament 
was also added to the door leading to the cloisters. 

On this is a shield, having on the dexter a sword pendant, 
piercing a heart, conjoined with the wing of a dove in the 
base : on the sinister, a palm branch joined to another wing. 
Over this door it is said that there was once a painting of the 
twelve apostles, but nothing farther is known of it. 

At the upper end of the north aisle is a sacellum raised 
two steps above the floor of the nave, formerly inclosed and 
appropriated to the purpose of private worship. This altar, 
together with the tomb of Blackleach, which formerly stood 
there, were removed by the late Dr. Griffith at the time the 
new organ screen was erected, by which means an uninter- 
rupted view of the beautiful north transept may be obtained 
from the nave. 

It is said that there were places for lamps in the third and 
fourth pillars on the north side, or rather perhaps for small 
images. The pulpit, which was used when the sermons were 
preached in the nave, stood against the second pillar in the 
north range, and not the south, as incorrectly stated by Mr. 
Rudge : it was erected by Bishop Parry 1609, and had on 
it the letters H. Gr. 1609. 

At the lower end of the south aisle is the Consistory Court, 
on which are the royal arms between those of Bishop Fowler 
and Chancellor Penrice. 

The west window is of large dimensions, and was once 
ornamented with fine painted glass, which was probably re- 
duced to its present imperfect state by puritanic bigotry 
during the interregnum. 



THE CATHEDRAL. 97 



THE CHOIR 



Was separated from the nave, where the rood-loft formerly 
stood by a screen so discordant in its componant parts, and 
so ill adapted to the surrounding style of architecture, that 
one is first surprised that it should ever have been permitted 
to be erected there, and next, that it should be the work of 
Kent, an artist famous in his day, and in many respects de- 
serving of the reputation he acquired. On the centre pannel 
was the following inscription : — -Martinus Episcopus fecit 
An. Dom. MDCCXLI et consecrationis suae VII mo - 

Before this was erected there was a screen of stone erected 
by one of the Abbots ; and directly opposite to the entrance 
of the Choir was a large door and arch over it, which had a 
chapel with an altar upon it, supported by two pillars. When 
these ancient parts were being removed, three stone coffins 
were found near the surface, containing the remains of three 
Abbots, with part of their gloves and robes remaining. 
Nearer to the cloisters' door another stone coffin was found, 
containing a sword, a small pewter chalice, a staff) and two 
skulls, which are supposed to have been those of Sir Nicho- 
las Gamage and his wife, who were buried near to their bro- 
ther, Abbot Gamage, one of the three above mentioned. The 
coffins were not removed. This was probably the place 
where most of the Abbots were interred, as prior to this there 
were five other large grave-stones found, with brass plates, 
three of which belonged to Abbots. 

In the year 1820, the present classically correct and appro- 
priate screen was substituted for the above. The organ stands 
on this screen, and breaks the view of the vault of the choir, 
and the east window at the altar, from the great west door. 
The blank walls in a line with the screen, separating the aisles 



98 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

of the nave from the transepts, were taken down, and by their 
removal an uninterrupted view, and a new and pleasing cha- 
racter, are given to those parts of the church. The modern 
stucco altar-screen, which disfigured our Lady's Chapel, has 
also been removed, and the remains of the original altar- 
piece, which was of the richest workmanship, and superbly 
decorated with curious painting and gilding, are sufficiently 
perfect, though much mutilated, to afford a useful and inter- 
esting study to the architect and antiquary. 

The public are indebted for these improvements to the late 
Dr. Griffiths, one of the Prebendaries of the Cathedral, 
under whose direction the same were made from his own 
drawings, and who died soon after their completion. An ele- 
gant gothic monument has been lately erected to his memory 
near the north transept, with a Latin inscription, of which 
the following is a translation : — " The Dean and Chapter 
caused this tablet to be erected as a token of their grateful 
remembrance and regard for the memory of James Griffiths, 
S.T.P. Prebendary of this Church, and Master of University 
College, Oxford, by whose ingenious skill and judgment this 
new organ-screen, and a more extended view of the aisles, 
and other improvements more peculiarly adapted to the style 
of gothic architecture, were set on foot and completed, the 
expence also being for the most part defrayed by himself. 
A. D. 1823." 

The choir presents a most beautiful specimen of pointed 
architecture. It is constructed within the pillars and arches 
of Serlo's building, the side walls being raised from the 
ground, and so connected with them as almost to appear a 
part of the original plan. At the entrance the object which 
first attracts attention is the east windbw, the largest perhaps 
in England. It is a little embowed, and occupies the whole 
space of the choir. The arch has three chief divisions, or 



THE CATHEDRAL. 99 

mullions, terminating elliptically, the middle of which includes 
six divisions on seven tiers or rows of compartments. The 
whole of the window is formed of painted glass, a great deal 
of which seems to have been collected from different parts, 
and put in without order or design. Some figures, however, 
may be discriminated with tolerable accuracy. In the lower 
row are Abbots and royal benefactors, among which Edw. II. 
Edw. III. Abbots Serlo and Horton may be selected. In the 
base are escutcheons of Edw. II. France and England, Edw. 
III. De Brotherton, Berkeley repeated, Beauchamp, De New- 
burgh, De la Riviere, Bradstone, Clare, De Bohun. The 
following are mentioned by Rudder : — Gules, a chevron 
ermine between ten crosses patee argent. Gules, a lion ram- 
pant, or. Berkeley. — Quarterly, 1st and 4th Gules, abend or, 
and argent. 2d and 3d, azure, five diamonds, or. — Gules, a 
chevron between cross crosslets, or. — Gules, a fess between 
six cross crosslets, or. Despencer. — Azure, on a chief two 
mullets, or. Montacute. — Earl of Clare. — Earl of Oxford. — 
Argent, six crosses fitchee on a chief between two mullets, 
or. Mortimer. — Vairy, gules and or. — Fretty, impaled with 
England. 

This window was put up in the time of Edward III. when 
stained glass was more frequent and excellent than at any 
other period, and the price was one shilling per square foot, 
so that it originally cost £139 : 18s. — Ballaway. 

The Presbytery, or Chancel, is entered by a flight of steps ; 
and the high altar is raised three steps higher. The pave- 
ment before it consists of painted bricks, upon which are 
arms, legends, and wreaths. Edward II. France and Eng- 
land, Clare, Beauchamp, Sebroke, and Branch frequently 
repeated. Many others have been lately brought from the 
chapels and different parts of the church, and disposed in 
their present order by the late Samuel Lysons, Esq. 

LcfC. 



100 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

The original altar was painted in fresco, and represented 
damask, with pedestals, upon which stood the silver images. 
This was concealed by a modern screen of wainscotted oak, 
sumptuous and magnificent, but ill according with the general 
style of architecture. It was put up about the beginning of 
the eighteenth century, as it appears from the Chapter Mi- 
nutes, "that twenty pounds (free gift) were granted to 
Michael Bysack for extraordinary work to the altar. In 1807 
it was removed, and a neat and appropriate altar of stone 
erected in its room. The absurdity of the former screen had 
long been censured by every judge of architecture ; nor had 
it escaped the observations of the members of the Cathedral, 
but the removal was first suggested, and the happy change 
effected, under the direction of Dr. Luxmore, then Dean of 
Gloucester, now Bishop of St. Asaph. On the south side of the 
altar are four subsellia, the canopies of which have a fiat 
entablature of intagliated tracery. Upon the architrave is 
carved a wand entwined with a ribbon, and at each end T. O. 
Above this the tabernacle work is continued with several 
lancet apertures, through which the relics were formerly 
exhibited. — Dallaway. 

On either side are thirty-one stalls with rich canopies, and 
seats of very grotesque sculpture ; the most remarkable of 
which are, two knights playing at dice, a knight running a 
tilt, a forester killing a stag, and a knight cutting off the head 
of a giant, with others not easily described. Stalls with simi- 
lar carvings are found in all old collegiate churches ; and are 
supposed by some to have been merely the effect of whim in 
the workmen ; by others to have been a satirical representation 
of the pursuits and vices either of the monks or secular 
clergy, as each happened to be triumphant. Nothing less 
than the most rooted enmity could have permitted such car- 
vings to have been executed in places set apart for solemn 



THE CATHEDRAL. 101 

and sacred exercises. The least exceptionable are scarcely 
to be tolerated ; but the gross indecency displayed in Saint 
George's Chapel, Windsor, outrages all morality and decorum, 
and should not, for a moment, out of respect to the inge- 
nuity of the workmanship, be permitted to defile the purity 
of the sanctuary. The stalls on the Prior's side were built 
by Adam de Staunton, and completed by Thomas Norton. 

The principal stalls are, the Bishop's, at the upper end on 
the south side of the choir ; next to that the Archdeacon's, 
bearing no distinguishing mark but in the title Archidiaconus 
on the pannel ; about the middle the Chancellor's, with Can- 
cellarius over ; at the bottom the Dean's, and three Preben- 
daries. Opposite to the Bishop's is the seat lately appropri- 
ated to the Mayor, though for time immemorial heretofore 
belonging to the Archdeacon, and having Archidiaconus in 
the pannel ; about the middle, on the same side, the Regis- 
trar's seat; and at the bottom the Sub-dean and two 
other Prebendaries. 

The canopies of the stalls are executed with consummate 
nicety, and exhibit a most beautiful specimen of florid gothic 
or tabernacle work. 

By charter, the Archdeacon of Gloucester ranks nexts to 
the Dean, and it appears by a manuscript in the possession 
of the author, that Archdeacon Lye had a violent dispute 
with the then Mayor respecting his presuming to sit there 
without being authorised so to do ; in consequence of which 
the Mayor and Corporation left the Cathedral, and went 
to one of the parish churches. Unquestionably this is the 
proper stall belonging to the Archdeacon by virtue of his 
office ; but by an act of chapter, in 1804, he was appointed 
to sit immediately on the left hand of the Bishop. Thus it 
appears that the charter may at any time be altered by an act 



102 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

of chapter ! In other Cathedrals, the Archdeacon's stall is 
opposite the Bishop's throne. 

The vault of the choir is an assemblage of innumerable 
beauties, so infinitely varied as not in one instance to be 
repeated. The tower is immediately over the middle of the 
choir, supported at the four angles by strong pillars, and rest- 
ing on the vault, and two arches on the north and south sides, 
the heaviness of which is relieved by a flying arch under 
each, with open spandrils, spanning- the width of the tower, 
and branching over the vault of the choir and adjoining tran- 
septs. The cross springers are of solid stone, and the vault, 
which they support, of the toph or stalactitical stone, or 
chalk combined with other materials, which form a light, 
though solid substance. The rosettes, with which the fine 
trellis work is ornamented, are infinitely diversified. In the 
centre of the tower is the star-hole, through which the bells 
are occasionally taken up or let down for repair, and is of less 
diameter than the great bell, which therefore was placed there 
prior to the building of the vault. 

The following statement respecting the great bell, and star- 
hole, appears in a note in Mr. Britton's account of the 
Cathedral, p. 61. — " There is much difference of opinion 
respecting the diameter of this aperture, and that of the great 
bell : it being generally asserted that the latter is greater than 
the former, and consequently could never have passed through 
the hole. Mr. Fosbrooke asserts, that the great bell must 
have been raised before the vaulting was finished, as " the 
hole is smaller than the great bell.' — (History, p. 258-9. J — 
The Rev. Mr. Bishop and Mr. Brayley examined and mea- 
sured the two in the autumn of 1827, with so much care and 
accuracy, that we may now speak with certainty on the sub- 
ject. The hole above the door-ledge is five feet nine inches 



THE CATHEDRAL. 103 

from north to south, and five feet ten inches from east to 
west ; whilst the extreme diameter of the great bell is five 
feet eight inches and a half." It may be inferred from the 
above statement, that the star-hole is actually larger than the 
bell ; but I am requested by Mr. Bishop to give here a part 
of the communication made to Mr. Britton, but omitted in 
this note, viz. — that the diameter of the opening beneath the 
door on which the star is painted, must be less than the 
above dimensions of the opening above the door, by the 
breadth of the ledge on which the door rests, perhaps six or 
eight inches. The bell, therefore, could not have passed 
through the hole, unless the ledge could have been inserted 
afterwards. 

Directly over the altar the vault is ornamented with figures 
representing musicians playing on various instruments, which 
are easily distinguished by the naked eye. 

Over the western arch, which rises above the roof of the 
nave, is contrived a window, which enlightens the higher part 
of the choir, and as the sun declines after noon, throws a 
splendid glare over the fretted vault. In this window was a 
blasphemous picture of the Trinity, which had been over- 
looked or permitted to occupy its place there for several 
years after the Reformation, till, at the instigation of Dr. 
Fowler, then Prebendary, afterwards Bishop of Gloucester, 
it was broken in pieces by the following order of Chapter, 
23d June, 1679 : — " Ordered that a certain scandalous picture 
of the Holy Trinity, being in the west window of the Quire, 
be removed, and other glass put therein.' ' Under the same 
window are now two monkish lines in old characters, to 
record the persons by whom this beautiful piece of architec- 
tural skill was planned and executed : — 

Hoc quod digestum specularis opusque politum 
Tullii, hcec ex opera Sebroke Abbate jubente. 



104 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

And Abbot Parker has preserved the memorial of the fund 
from which the choir was finished ; speaking of Edward II. 

" By whose oblations the south isle of this church, 
Edyfyed was and built & also the Queere." 

Stanza Ibth. 

In the choir the service used to be chaunted every day in 
the forenoon and afternoon. Agreeably to an order of 
Chapter, 30th Nov. 1782, the morning and evening prayers, 
and the whole litany and communion service, began to be 
read as in parish churches, and not chaunted, except the 
psalms, hymns, and anthems. The learned Bishop Hallifax 
approved of this alteration, but it gave umbrage to many who 
were in the habit of daily attendance at the Cathedral ; the 
service was, at , length, much to the general satisfaction, 
brought back to its ancient mode by Dr. Luxmore, and is 
retained and encouraged by the good taste and scientific 
arrangements of the present Dean. 

A passage leads round the choir from the north to the 
south transept, coeval with the old building. On each side 
are two chapels or oratories. The first on the south side, 
which, before the putting up of Bishop Benson's monument, 
had a window, or was open into the south transept, is now 
convertedinto avestuary or robing-room for the Minor Canons. 
The next chapel, towards the east, has the shrine destroyed ; 
but on the pavement are, or were, bricks with the arms of 
Clare, King of the Romans; France and England; Beauchamp; 
A. Leopard; Abbot Braunch ; Audley, E. of Gloucester. 

The next, properly Boteler's Chapel, is on the north side 
of the entrance into our Lady's Chapel. It was built or 
fitted up by Reginald Boulers, or Boteler, Abbot about 1437. 
It is of a semi-octagonal form, separated from the aisle by a 
light screen. The shrine was erected by Johan Baptista 



THE CATHEDRAL. 105 

Tyron, a monk of the Abbey, as did appear from an inscription 
on a painted brick at the west end of the chapel, Kvpte eXeicov 
ale Fratr. Johis Tyrou. It consists of three large niches, 
each between six smaller ones above the other, and over them 
two turrets, containing in arcades small whole length figures. 
The frize is ornamented with quartrefoils and escutcheons in 
two rows, namely, St. George ; Sa — within bordure argent : 
Brydges : Vele : Bouler's, or Boteler, Az. 3 cov. cups Or. : 
Az. a gules, 3 Griffins erased Or. : Az. an E displayed 
within a double tressure arg. : Boleyne : Montacute : Bro- 
therton quarterly Warren : Az. 3 crowns Or. : Two swords 
in Salt. pom. Or. : Sable, a X un base, and in Ch. 2 keys in 
Saltire & mitre Or. : Edward Confessor : France and Eng- 
land : Le Despencer : Beauchamp of Powick : Berkeley of 
Stoke : Throckmorton : Tracy : Greville : Whitington : 
Boteler a Park : Pauncefote : Arg. an in Ch. 3 roundlets 
az. : Bradstone : Boteler Abb. Glouc. Stafford : Diagram of 
the Trinity : Fr. & Engl. : Berkeley within a bordure arg. : 
Mill. Erm. a Millink sab. : Guise: Acton. Three are de- 
stroyed. On the pavement, arms of Boulars. 

According to Rudder, the following inscription was over 
the altar : — 

Hoc Baptista Tyrou Gloucestre fecit honore 
Fac hunc ergo frui Celi sine fine decore ; 
Hie etiam cultor precious memorare tuonim 
Et Rex celorum semper sit tutor eorum 
Hoc Pater et flamen concordat jugiter Amen. 

Opposite the north side entrance to the choir, over an 

arched door-way upon Escoch. between quatrefoils, is the 

letter O on one side, and C on the other ; a passage leads to 

St. Andrew's Chapel, which is open to the north transept. 

The shrine, or altar, contains three large and eight smaller 

niches, quite perfect, and of fine workmanship. Over the 
e 2 



106 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

door-case leading to the chapter-room, are Escoch. beset with 
foliage, cherubs holding a scroll, the inscription defaced with 
white- wash. 

THE NORTH TRANSEPT 

Was built, according to Dallaway, by Abbot Horton, about 
1370, in the chaste style of that era. The roof is finished 
with peculiar minuteness, and ornamented with rosettes. 
The eastern side is formed by a slender wall pierced with 
pointed windows or openings, which shew at different points 
the circular arches of the ancient building. On the north 
side is a building which is clearly additional, and subsequent 
in date. The architecture is beautiful and highly ornament- 
ed ; but the original designation of it is involved in obscu- 
rity. It is said to have been a place of confinement for 
refractory monks ; and the gratings, which are of wood, are 
produced in proof of the supposition. 

This, however, is the sole foundation on which it rests, 
as there are no written records to prove it. Is it probable 
that a place of confinement or punishment would have been 
made in the interior of an edifice consecrated to the purposes 
of religion, when in a monastery so large, many places might 
have been found better adapted to the purpose ? From the 
appearance of Abbot Parker's arms, it has been supposed, 
that whatever was the intention, it was erected in his time. 
It is now used as a vestuary for the lay clerks and singing 
boys. 

THE SOUTH TRANSEPT 

Is of nearly Norman architecture : and, a memorial, in black 
letter, for William Pipard, who was Sheriff in 1163, now 
appears on the outside of it. 



THE CATHEDRAL. 10 7 

There are many beautiful specimens of early architecture 
in this cross arm, particularly in the roof, which exhibits in 
the groins great variety of unadorned triangular, square, and 
lozenge compartments. On the south side is a blank door, 
which probably opened originally into the church-yard. 
Each side is ornamented with large statues of angels, now 
much injured, which, by the reclining posture, seem to pay a 
submissive attention to the person passing through. The 
exterior of this transept shows antiquity, in the intersecting 
arches of the colonnade, and zig-zag mouldings, though the 
interior is more modern, and was decorated with its present 
beauties about 1330, in the time of Abbot Wigmore. In the 
south west angle is the door which leads up to the tower and 
the galleries which surround the Choir. 

In the first gallery is a curious painting of the Last Judg- 
ment, which was discovered some years ago behind the wain- 
scotting in the nave, at the time the seats were removed. It 
is generally supposed to have been an altar piece, and con- 
cealed at the time of the reformation : but the building 
wherein the blessed are represented as standing, and which 
seems to represent the New Jerusalem, is of Grecian archi- 
tecture, and therefore of more modern date. I should rather 
assign it to one of those periods, either when popery re- 
gained a short-lived triumph on the death of Edward VI. or 
on the compleat establishment of protestantism in the reign 
of Elizabeth. The victorious party in either case, but most 
likely in the former, might express their zeal by this fanciful 
representation of their opponents being consigned to the pun- 
ishment they were supposed to merit. It is said that two 
paintings were done in Abbot Wigmore' s time, one for the 
Abbot's chapel ; the other for the high altar, which Fos- 
broke supposes to be this ; in his time, however, the pointed 
arch only was used, and such might have been expected to 
be the style of the painting. 



108 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



THE WHISPERING GALLERY 

Is mentioned by Lord Bacon, as being very remarkable, but 
the principles of acou sticks are now so much better un- 
derstood than formerly, and consequently the means by 
which the eiFects are produced, that we are no longer sur- 
prised. This was most likely not the effect of original 
design; the passage, which is seventy feet in length, was 
constructed as the obvious mode of communication with the 
northern side, and the octagonal form, by which the rever- 
beration of sound is produced, was best adapted to the east 
window of the choir, round which the passage led. On the 
right side, exactly in the middle, a door leads into a small 
chapel, with an altar table of stone, where the Abbot and 
others are supposed to have stood during the celebration 
of mass in the Lady's Chapel, and on the opposite wall the 
following lines are inscribed : — 

Doubt not but God, who sits on high, 

Thy secret prayers can hear, 
When a dead wall thus cunningly 

Conveys soft whispers to the ear. 

On the first floor of the tower, directly over the centre of 
the choir vault, is the great bell, weighing 6500 pounds. Its 
height, to the canons or staples, is 4 feet 9 inches. The 
exact age of this bell is not known, but it must be prior to 
the vaulting of the choir, because its diameter is 5 feet 8J 
inches, and that of the star-hole only five feet. On the out- 
side is this inscription, me fecit fieri muncutus nomine 
petri, with the arms of the Abbey, and a coronet of four 
fleurs de luce over them, whence it has been inferred that it 
was given by Peter, who was Abbot in 1104-, but this suppo- 
sition is probably incorrect; since muncutus may as well mean 



THE CATHEDRAL. 109 

the building dedicated to St. Peter, as the person who pre- 
sided over it; and if the coronet, according to Rudder, refers 
to the Dukes of Gloucester, it must have been cast many 
years after Abbot Peter's time, as the first Duke was created 
in 1345, or thereabout. In the loft above is a peal of eight 
musical bells, which have the following inscriptions : — the 
first, Doctor Lewis, Deanne, 1598, on the top, and under, 
Robart Nevecome. of Leicester, mademee; the second, Sancte 
Petre, or a pro nobis ; the third, Gid. Jane, S.T.P. Dec. Anno. 
Dom. 1666; the fouth, Sit nomen Domini benedicium — (this 
has lately been broken); the fifth, In multis minis resonet, 
campana Johannis ; the sixth, Sum Rosa pulsata mundi, Maria 

vocata; the seventh, not intelligible, T.W. 6261, which 

appeal's to be an accidental inversion of the figures, as the 
letters refer to Thomas Winniff, Dean ; the eighth, Dan Xew- 
come, Decan* Th. Lye, Sub. D. Matth. Panting, Thesar. anno 
Dom. 1736. 

From the summit of the tower is seen a beautiful expanse 
of picturesque, and finely varied country, which is accurately 
represented by an engraving of Bonn or' s, entitled " A Sketch 
of the bearing from Gloucester College Tower, of the cities, 
towns, and eminences, which are in and contiguous to the 
vale of Evesham." 



THE CHAPEL OF OUR LADY 

Is continued in a direct line with the choir, and exhibits a 
complete specimen of richness and chastity of composition 
most happily united. It is entered under a fine obtuse arch, 
richly ornamented, and separated from the passage or ambu- 
latory, by a very beautiful screen, pierced into a number of 



110 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

cinquefoil divisions, with ornaments of quatrefoils interspersed. 
" The ceiling of this porch has a cross of rich pendants, sur- 
rounded by the most elaborate ribs, judiciously intersected." 
The first object which strikes the eye on entering is the fine 
eastern window, adorned with painted glass of brilliant colors, 
and representations of our Saviour surrounded by Kings, 
Prelates, and Abbots, thirty-seven in number, and varied with 
great judgment and effect. The altar-piece, of stucco, resem- 
bling a radiation, has been removed, as mentioned in p. 98 ; 
and the tapestry which covered it, was given to the parish of 
Badgeworth, and is now placed in the church there. On the 
south side of the altar are three seats for the officiating priests ; 
" four buttresses exquisitely fluted, and enriched with foliage, 
enclose and support three sided canopies with indented trefoil 
arches, from each corner of which small clustered columns 
ascend to a cornice, forming eight arches, finely indented, 
and a diminutive colonnade ; the ceilings of the canopies are 
covered with slender ribs, that arise from pillars, not larger 
than a wand ; the piscina is quite perfect on a beautiful pe- 
destal." On each side are two chapels or chantries, one over 
another, which have ceilings profusely decorated ; they each 
contain twelve circles, with centre flowers, whose intervals 
are full of tracery ; between them are quatrefoils in circles, 
and the ascending arches are covered by nets of enriched 
pannels. The roof of the Lady's Chapel is one grand pointed 
arch, indented on the sides by the arches of the windows ; a 
centre rib, with one on each side, extend east and west ; seven 
others diverge from each column, and intersecting throughout 
the surface of the whole vault, form a vast variety of lozenges, 
radii, and angles, which are bound together by fillets ; the 
whole is covered with numberless rosettes, flowers, foliage 
and scrolls. The floor of the chapel and porch is paved with 
painted tiles, which, however, are in a great measure destroyed 



THE CATHEDRAL. Ill 

by grave-stones, or worn out by use. Mutilated inscriptions 
and arms are partially to be distinguished. A chapel was 
added to the choir first in 1222, at the expense of Ralph de 
Wylhngton, who gave a stipend yearly, to support two pres- 
byters, who were to celebrate mass for the dead. It was 
totally rebuilt, between 1457 and 1498, by the Abbots Stanley 
and Farleigh, and is 92 feet 1 inch long, 24 feet 4 inches 
broad, 46 feet 6 inches high. Morning service is performed 
here throughout the year about seven o'clock. 



THE CLOISTERS, 

Begun by Abbot Horton, were compleated by Abbot Frow- 
cester, in 1390, and are the most elegant and perfect of the 
kind in England. The sides and roof are profusely embel- 
lished, and the windows filled with mullions and tracery. It 
is perhaps a fanciful idea of Bishop Warburton's, that gothic 
architecture was intended to imitate an avenue of lofty 
trees ; yet if an appropriate colour were laid on, and the 
shades well preserved, the same idea would probably strike 
more ordinary observers on walking through these cloisters. 
Each side of the square is 148 feet. From the nave is an 
entrance through an open iron gate, with a window of stained 
glass at the termination, which throws the intermediate dis- 
tance into fine perspective. The place now occupied by the 
window was formerly the gate leading into the refectory, 
which probably survived the dissolution of the monastery 
several years, as the office of cook was not abolished till 1636, 
by an order of chapter. Near to this are places where the 
members of the convent used to wash before dinner. The 



112 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

lavatory on the south side, now enclosed with pallisades, was 
supplied with water from Robinswood hill, and in the suda- 
tory opposite, napkins were hung, for the purpose of drying 
themselves. On the east side is a door leading up to the 
old library, now used as the collegiate school. Near to this 
is the door into the present 



LIBRARY. 

This was formerly the chapter-room of the Abbey, and 
the place where William the Conqueror and some of his 
successors used to meet the nobles, prelates, and other great 
men of the kingdom, lay and spiritual, to consult about im- 
portant concerns in church and state. The modern book- 
cases and shelves hid from view the circular arches, with 
zig-zag mouldings on each side. Samuel Lysons, Esq. whose 
authority carries great weight, supposes that the more an- 
cient part of this building was erected by William the Con- 
queror, who repaired and enlarged the monastery, then in a 
ruinous conditon. The entrance is through a door-way 
having a circular arch and zig-zag mouldings, and on each 
side, there either was or intended to be a smaller door. The 
east window is of large dimensions, and was certainly the 
work of a much later date; the style of that and the groins 
of the roof in the modern part, much resemble the extreme 
western part of the nave. The room is 72 feet by 33, and 
contains a good collection of ancient polemical divinity, and 
some old authors of celebrity. Some addition was made to 
the stock by the munificence of the late Dean Tucker. Ac- 
cording to Leland, the names of several eminent persons who 



The cathedral. 113 

were buried here, were inscribed on the wall in his time, in 
black letter : — 

Hie jacet Rogerus, comes de Hereford. 

Hie jacet Richard Strongbowe, fills Gilbert e comites de 
Pembroke. 

Hie jacet Gualterus de Lacy. 

Hie jacet Philipus de Foye, Miles. 

Hie jacet Bernardus de Novo Mercato^ 

Hie jacit Paganus de Cadurcis* 

Their grave -stones are probably concealed under the 
wooden floor. 

" Thomas Pury, Jun. Esq. whose arms are on the north 
side of the east window, assisted by Mr. Sheppard, Captain 
Hemming, and others, made this library at a great expence 
in 1648, and as Sir Robert Atkyns has observed, encouraged 
literature to assist reason, in the midst of times deluded with 
imaginary inspiration. In 1656, this library was settled upon 
the mayor and burgesses, who made themselves guardians 
of it ; but Mr. Pury, Sir Mathew Hale, and the officers of 
the garrison, were the principal benefactors to it." Parallel 
with the library, is a passage or room, (over which are the 
treasury and the present chapter-room,) now called the stone- 
house, because the masons who were employed about the 
Cathedral, used it for a workshop. The entrance from the 
cloisters is walled up, though still visible. A door opens 
from it into the grove; on each side within, are several ar- 
cades or recesses of the same era with those in the library, 
and on the right side leading towards the grove, is a way 
down a flight of several steps, leading to a room fifteen or 
twenty feet square, intended and used heretofore, accord- 
ing to the opinion of some, for a dungeon, or as it adjoins, 
might communicate with the crypt under St. Andrew's 
chapel. 



114 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

The north side of the south walk of the cloisters contains 
thirty recesses, in which, according to traditionary accounts, 
the monks used to sit, when employed in copying manuscripts 
before the art of printing was discovered. 

The modern bookcases and shelves, as well as the carved 
figures of the arts and sciences, have been very properly re- 
moved, as not at all harmonising with the building ; and this 
fine antique room has been lately fitted up in an appropriate 
and judicious manner, under the very able direction of the 
Rev. Mr. Bishop, one of the Minor Canons, and Librarian 
to the Cathedral. There are some very valuable works ; a 
copious collection of the Fathers and Digests, and in the 
manuscript department, a copy of Lydgate's Troy Boke, but 
only one Abbey Register out of several, the contents of 
which have been translated by Mr. Prinn, and still remain at 
Charlton Kings ; together with similar transcripts of those of 
Cirencester and Lanthony also lost: Abbot Frocester's 
Chronicle of the Abbey is missing ; and it is to be hoped 
that the remaining Register of Abbot Malverne will not 
meet with a similar fate. 

The Author has in his possession a copy of Abbot Froces- 
ter's Chronicle, and also copies of the Registers of Cirencester 
and Lanthony, all in the hand writing of Archdeacon Furney, 
which he intends to bequeath to the College Library. 

Mr. Britton, in his History and Antiquities of the Abbey 
and Cathedral Church of Gloucester, (p. 64) says, In 1826, 
and 1827, the Dean and Chapter very properly had the chap- 
ter-room again fitted up with care and skill for the preserva- 
tion of their present library ; and it is gratifying to know that 
it is placed in the custody of one so well qualified to guard 
its stability and pristine beauty as the present very amiable 
and estimable Librarian, 



THE CATHEDRAL. 115 



THE EXTEEIOR OF THE CATHEDRAL 

Is equal at least in elegant design and masterly workmanship 
to the interior. The western front, which terminates Hor- 
ton's additional building of the nave, exhibits a facade of 
wide dimension, but the whole is well relieved by the win- 
dows, the open battlements, the arched buttresses, niches, 
pinnacles, and other accompaniments. On the north side 
of the central door is an escutcheon, bearing the arms of En- 
gland, quarterly, Three fleurs de lis, and three lions. On the 
opposite side are the arms of the Abbey. 



THE SOUTH PORCH 

Was built by the same Abbot in 1422, and every possible 
exertion seems to have been successfully made to concentrate 
all the beauties of gothic architecture in this small building. 
All the component parts are in perfect proportion : the side 
windows are extremely elegant in the tracery and disposition 
of the mullions. The ceiling is exquisitely fine : among the 
figures are discoverable those of Christ and the Virgin Mary. 
The outside is equally elegant and well finished, but it is to 
be lamented that the interior has suffered very much from 
wanton mischief, and rude repairs ; while the exterior has 
been equally injured by the influence of weather, on the 
friable materials with which it was built. On each side of 
the door is an escutcheon, bearing the royal arms and those 
of the see : but the former having a few years since gone to 
decay, were ignorantly put up again, quarterly, England and 
France, instead of France and England as at the west door. 



116 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

It is worthy of remark, that this mode of placing the fleurs 
de lis, in the first and most honourable quarter of the shield, 
was adopted first by Edward III. according to Gwillim, to 
shew his undoubted title to the kingdom of France. Since 
the peace concluded with that nation in 1801, the fleurs de 
lis have been left out of the arms, and King of France out of 
the titles of the King of England. The south side of the 
Cathedral is variously ornamented. The projecting buttres- 
ses more immediately strike the eye at first view. In a niche 
on the front of each of them, was formerly placed a statue, 
probably of some benefactor ,• but fanatic ignorance, which, 
under the idea of destroying idolatrous worship, pays no re- 
gard to science or art, has left only mutilated remains. " The 
six windows, until they reached the south porch, are acutely 
pointed, and above the arching of their mullions, a branching 
radiates from the centre, with the usual ornament of foliage 
accommodated to the shape of each opening, their frame 
being closely studded. The windows of the upper tier par- 
take of the same beautiful proportion, the upper mullions 
springing from the crown of the under ones. A string course 
above these, carry the battlements, which are not perforated, 
but sufficiently enlightened for their situation." The addi- 
tional building of Horton is here accurately marked by the 
change of character in the buttresses ; those to the east of 
the porch have zig-zag mouldings, with slender projections, 
and terminating upward with a lozenge shaft, spiral cap'd ; 
whereas westward of the porch, they are more slender in 
shape; the spiral cap'd top is supported by a square shaft, 
and the buttresses spread southward above the arch which 
supports them. — Bomior's Perspective Itinerary. 



THE CATHEDRAL. 117 



THE TOWER 



Ranks high among the most elegant and spendid buildings of 
this kind in England or elsewhere. " It was compleated a 
few years only before the suppression of the Abbey, under 
the direction of Robert Tuiley, (one of the monks, and after- 
wards Bishop of St. David's,) to whom that charge had been 
bequeathed by Abbot Sebroke, who died in 1457. The 
ornamented members and perforated pinnacles are of the most 
delicate tabernacle work, very full, but preserving an air of 
chasteness and simplicity. Its peculiar perfection, which 
immediately strikes the eye, is an exact symmetry of com- 
ponent parts, and the judicious distribution of ornaments. 
The shaft of the tower is equally divided into two stories, 
correctly repeated in every particle, and the open parapet 
and pinnacles, so richly clustered^ are an example of gothic 
in its most improved state. — Dallaway* s English Architecture. 



THE LITTLE CLOISTERS 

Are probably a part of the old monastery, and the place 
where Wilstan, the second Abbot, was buried, under the 
yew tree, in 1072, as a mark of disgrace for having wasted 
the property of the monastery. The south entrance exhibits 
a style coeval with the most ancient part of the building. 
Within these cloisters is a house belonging to the Prebendary 
of the second stall. Near the north entrance is another 
house belonging to the Prebendary of the third stall, standing 
partly on the site of the old Abbey Infirmary, which name is 
still retained. 



118 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



THE BISHOFs PALACE 

Stands in Palace-yard, or Miller's green, so called because a 
mill for grinding corn for the Abbey stood in it. It was the 
residence of the Abbot, and granted to the Bishop with all its 
appurtenances, by the charter of Henry VIII. At different 
periods great improvements have been made by successive 
Bishops, by which a residence tolerably comfortable has been 
made, but still inadequate to the dignity of the episcopal 
station. The new front was built by Bishop Benson, — 
unfortunately of the Doric order ! — The hall is a large room, 
with a window occupying nearly the whole of the north 
end. Over the fire-place is a small tablet of marble, put up 
by Bishop Hallifax, and intended to perpetuate the memory 
of his late Majesty's most gracious condescension, who on the 
24th of July, 1788, received the clergy into his royal presence 
in this room. The following memorial is inscribed: — 

GEORG1US III. 

Regum optimus 
Cum serenissima Regina Chaulotta 

Regiaque prole, 

Charlotta, Augusta, Elizabetha, 

Semel iterumque 

Has sedes invisere dignatus est, 

MDCCLXXXVIII. 

Samuel Episcopus 

Turn augusti hospitis accepti 

Grate raemor, 

Posteris notum voluit. 

The chapel is neatly fitted up, and has an elegant painted 
window at the east end, descriptive of the resurrection. 
This also was done at the expense of Bishop Benson, who, 
being endowed by nature with a Kberal mind, and possessed 



THE CATHEDRAL. 119 

of an ample fortune by inheritance, was enabled to make 
improvements which the scanty revenue of the see would not 
otherwise have allowed. 



MONUMENTS IN THE CATHEDRAL. 

It would exceed the limits of this work were we to give an 
account of all the monuments in the Cathedral. The fol- 
lowing is a description of the principal ones : — 

The monument of Edward the Second (says the account 
of the Antiquarian Society) has been given in detail, on 
account of the extraordinary beauty and ingenuity of its 
design. It ranks among the very first of our sepulchral mo- 
numents, and the delicacy of its execution is fully equal to the 
elegance of its form. The effigy of the unfortunate monarch 
is, for the period, of uncommon merit. Mr. Carter says, 
" This exquisite monument, the work of the fourteenth cen- 
tury, the era when the ancient arts of the kingdom had 
arrived at their zenith of perfection, is, perhaps, both in ele- 
gance of design and delicacy of sculpture, the most perfect 
specimen remaining of the monumental architecture of our 
ancestors." 

The design consists of three principal stories : first, the 
basement, or tomb part, whereon the statue is laid ; second, 
the open screen, supporting the canopy over the statue ; 
third, an upper open screen, terminating with pinnacled cano- 
pies. In its length the screen has three arches, separated by 
clusters of pillars and buttresses of most elegant contrivance, 
which support the vault or canopy, and the design of the ends 
of the monument is an exact repetition of one of the lateral 
compartments in every particular. There is some difference 
in the work of the niches on each side of the basement : on 



120 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

the south side there are three niches, while an the north side 
there are but two, the centre division being filled by an octan- 
gular bracket, on the top of which is an excavation, probably 
to receive the offerings made at this sacred memorial. 
" When it is considered how many irreligious and anti-royal 
hours, fraught with barbarity and savage despoliation, have 
passed since the erection of this noble tomb, astonishment is 
excited that in our day it still exists, so little havocked and 
so venerated." " The sculpture of the statue is elegant, and 
probably equal to any thing of that period. The attitude is 
full of repose and dignity. In the right hand, the sceptre ; 
in the left, the mundus, or ball ; on the head, the crown, 
supported by angels ; at the feet, a lion. The dress is a plain 
tunic, reaching to the feet, with an open mantle over it. The 
statue has suffered little : the bottom of the sceptre is broken, 
the cross on the mundus destroyed, the rays of the crown 
mutilated, and, by the small cavities in the circlet, jewels 
must once have been stuck there. In the front view of the 
face, we may fancy that indications of pain about the forehead 
are discernible. It was probably copied from a cast (wax) 
of the deceased, after the countenance had been composed, 
yet not so effectually as to do away all trace of the horrid 
torments he had endured. The view of the profile of the 
head is beautiful, in the lines benign and placid." 

Mr. J. C. Buckler says, that " for beauty of design and 
execution, it has perhaps only one rival, in the Percy monu- 
ment at Beverley." This grand memorial of an unfortunate 
Monarch was erected by Edward III. The effigy of the 
King attracted the admiration of Roubiliac, not Ruysbrack, 
as mentioned by Rudge, and other writers who have tran- 
scribed from his History of Gloucester. The elegant canopy 
is modern, and not strictly copied from the old one, which 
may be seen in Sandford's Genealogical History. The 



THE CATHEDRAL. 121 

white stags are the family badges, borne afterwards by Rich. II. 
The representation of them has given rise to a vulgar tradition, 
that the King was conveyed to interment in a chariot drawn 
by stags, which is disproved by Mr. Smyth's account before 
given. However, as there is always some ground for tradition, 
it does appear that the late Earl of Orford was not the first 
who used a carriage drawn by stags. In Drayton's second 
Nymph al, Cleon offers Lyrope a chariot, and adds — 

" In which along the pleasant lawn, 

With twelve white stags thou shalt be drawn." 

Effigy of Robert Curthose, Duke of Normandy. — He was ori- 
ginally interred in the middle of the choir, opposite the high 
altar, with a stone over him marked with a cross. Above the 
stone was this effigy, the materials of which (Irish oak) 
bespeak its high antiquity. Mr. Gough thinks that it may be 
the second oldest instance of the kind carved in wood. The 
coronet is composed of pearls, fleurs de lis, and strawberry 
leaves alternately, which is a mixture of those princes of the 
blood in France and ancient dukes. There is no crest, shield, 
or helmet; the surtout is Norman, as are the chain-mail and 
wheel-spur. The buff breeches outside are anomalous, and 
probably intended to identify the figure in allusion to the term 
curl hose, or short hose, anciently signifying stockings and 
shoes united, modern pantaloons. Buff leather was some- 
times an aid to, sometimes a substitute for, iron armour. 
The sword belts, the hilt, and girdle, may be found in the 
Anglo-Saxon era. There is much expression in the figure, 
and spirit in the countenance. In 1641, the Commonwealth 
ruffians broke the figure to pieces. Sir Humphrey Tracey, 
of Stanway, bought these, and at the Restoration repaired 
and beautified the tomb. 



122 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Mrs. Morletfs Monument— This is a fine specimen of mo- 
dern sculpture, and is justly admired. Mrs. Morley appears 
standing on the sea with an infant in her arms, while three 
angels are taking charge of her, in order to convey her and 
her infant to heaven. The sculpture (which is by Flaxman) 
is in general good, but the figure wants the Grecian round- 
ness of contour, to have the best effect. 

Blackleach's Monument — Mr. Dallaway, in Gent.'s Mag. 
June 1818, says, " In the Cathedral is the tomb of Alderman 
Blackleach and his Wife, in white marble, upon a slab of 
touch-stone, the figures of which are portraits scrupulously 
copied from Vandyck, and very finely finished." This author 
thinks this tomb to be either the work of Le Sueur, well 
known for the equestrian statue of Charles I. at Charing 
Cross ; or Fanelli, a sculptor equally eminent. 

Judge Powell. — Against the north wall in our Lady's Cha- 
pel is a magnificent monument, of white marble, for Judge 
Powell, with his effigy at length, in a judge's habit. He was 
a native of Gloucester, and resided in a house lately occupied 
by Mr. Raikes in the Southgate, nearly opposite to the 
Church of St. Mary de Crypt. He represented the city in 
Parliament in 1685, was called to the coif in 1686, and was 
appointed a Justice of the Common Pleas in 1687, at which 
time he was knighted, and was removed to the Court of 
King's Bench in the year following. He sat in that Court at 
the memorable trial of the seven Bishops, and having declared 
against the King's dispensing power, he was deprived of his 
office in 1688, but replaced by William III. in the Common 
Pleas in 1695. Queen Anne advanced him to the Queen's 
Bench in 1702, where he sat until his death, at Gloucester, 



THE CATHEDRAL. 123 

on his return from Bath, June 14, 1713, far advanced in life. 
He was reckoned a sound lawyer and an upright judge ; and 
in private life was, to the last, a man of a cheerful facetious 
disposition. Swift, who met him at Lord Oxford's, calls him 
" an old fellow, with grey hairs, who was the merriest old 
gentleman I ever saw, spoke pleasing things, and chuckled 
till he cried again." He was a great friend to the citizens of 
Gloucester, making no distinction of party, which in his time 
ran very high : as in the case of several of the citizens, who, 
on meeting with the Mayor one night, rolled him in the 
kennel. As this was a great offence, to prevent a prosecution, 
Judge Powell became a mediator, and reconciled all parties. 
In his time the laws against witchcraft being unrepealed, one 
Jane Wenman was tried before him, for bewitching a young 
man, who appeared in court as the prosecutor, and proved 
the fact to the satisfaction of the jury. After Judge Powell 
had summed up the evidence, he addressed the jury in the 
following words : " Gentlemen, I have known many cases 
where men have been bewitched in a most extraordinary 
manner, but in every instance the witches have been beautiful 
young women, instead of an ugly old one. If you look at the 
prisoner at the bar, I am sure you will be of opinion with me, 
that whatever influence she has had upon mankind must long 
since have ceased. Some of the witnesses have sworn that 
she can fly in the air. Prisoner," said the Judge, addressing 
himself to the old woman, " can you fly ?" " Yes, my Lord," 
was the reply. " Well, then, you may : there is no law 
against flying. The woman must be acquitted;" and she 
was acquitted accordingly. 

Alderman Jones, — On the south side of the door, at the 
west entrance into the nave of the Cathedral, is a very curious 



124 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

alabaster (not marble, as stated in Rudge's History) monu- 
ment for John Jones, Esq. in his aldermanic robes, painted 
with different colours, underneath which, on a tablet of black 
marble, is the following inscription : — 

JOHN JONES, Alderman, 

thrice Mayor of this City, 

Burgess of the Parliament at the time of the 

Gunpowder Treason, 

Registrar to eight several Bishops 

of this Diocese. 

And round the verge, in capital letters, is inscribed — 

" I HEARD A VOICE FROM HEAVEN, SAYING UNTO ME, ' WRITE, 
BLESSED ARE THE DEAD THAT DIE IN THE LORD.' " 

On each side of this monument are carved antique maces, 
such as were heretofore carried before the Mayor, and at the 
top is a globe, representing the general conflagration, where it 
appears that every thing is . destroyed except the Cathedral 
of Gloucester. He died in the sixth year of the reign of 
King Charles I. ; but there is no date upon the monument, 
although it is on the grave-stone upon the floor near adjoin- 
ing. He gave orders for his monument to be erected in his 
life-time. When the workmen had fixed it up, he found some 
fault with the over redness of the face, and said that poste- 
rity would suppose he was a great drinker : he, therefore, 
desired the workmen to alter it whilst he took a turn or two 
in the body of the church, which was soon done, and he was 
desired to come and see it. He then told the workmen that 
it was very well, and asked the master whether the monument 
was finished, who informed him that it was ; to which Mr. 
Jones replied, " and so am I, too, almost ;" and thereupon 
wave the workmen some money to drink, and desired the 
master to go along with him home and receive the money for 
the monument, which he accordingly did. This was upon 
a Saturday, and upon the Monday following Mr. Jones died. 



THE CATHEDRAL* 125 

Alderman Jones resided at Brockworth, in this county, 
and was ancestor to Henry Yates Jones, of the same place, 
Esquire, to whom the monument belongs. 

Lady Strachan. — Against one of the pillars on the north 
side of the nave is a beautiful marble monument to the me- 
mory of Dame Mary Strachan, wife of Sir Win. Strachan, 
Bart, daughter and sole heiress of Edward Popham, late oi 
Tewkesbury Park, in this county, Esquire, who died Oct. 23, 
1770. This fine specimen of sculpture was executed by Mr. 
Ricketts, a native of this city. The design of it is chaste and 
elegant, and the execution certainly equal, if not superior, to 
any in the Cathedral. A weeping cherub, with an hymeneal 
torch inverted, is represented leaning on a medallion of the 
deceased. On a tablet underneath is the following senten- 
tious inscription : — 

" In her life, gentleness of manners, firmness of affection, and 
sincerity in religion, characterized the woman, the friend, and 
the christian." 

Dr. Jenner. — In the year 1824, a marble statue, to the me- 
mory of Dr. Jenner, was erected in our Cathedral. It is placed 
at the west end of the nave, immediately before the first pier 
on the south side. The execution of this public monument 
reflects the highest credit upon the sculptor, R.W. Sievier,Esq. 
and manifests the judgment and taste of the committee in their 
appropriation of the subscription entrusted to their care, and 
in their selection of the artist. The Doctor is represented 
in the gown of his Oxford degree, which gives a fine display 
of drapery, so arranged as to render unobtrusive the ungrace- 
ful forms of modern costume, and, at the same time, to 
impart to the figure a degree of height and dignity which it 
might otherwise have wanted. In his right hand, which 



126 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

crosses the body and supports a fold of the gown, he holds a 
scroll ; and in his left, which drops carelessly on the side, the 
appropriate academic cap. The whole figure is beautifully 
distinguished by classical elegance and simplicity; and, 
through the skill of the artist, seems to convey to the mind 
of the spectator an idea of the spirit of philanthropy which 
ever actuated the illustrious discoverer of vaccination. The 
statue is seven feet in height, placed upon a pedestal and base 
of eight feet. Upon the die of the pedestal is simply inscribed 
"Edward Jenner," with the time and place of his birth and 
death ; eulogium being an unnecessary accompaniment to a 
name which is never breathed but with blessings, and which 
has won its way into the remotest corners of the habitable 
globe. We cannot but hope that our venerable Cathedral 
may, at some future time, have placed in it a similar memo- 
rial to departed worth on the opposite corresponding side. 

Mr. Britton states, among the modern monuments of the 
Church, the first in distinction and merit is a colossal statue, 
placed at the west end of the nave, and commemorative of the 
fame and person of Edw. Jenner, M.D. L.L.D. F.R.S. &c. &c. 
who was buried at Berkeley, in Gloucestershire. This sta- 
tue was executed by R. W. Sievier, of London : a sculptor 
who, like Mr. Chantrey, served his apprenticeship to another 
profession, but, from a predilection for this exalted branch of 
the fine arts, devoted his ardent mind to it, and has fortu- 
nately attained an honourable eminence. The statue now 
under notice is distinguished by that union of simplicity and 
grandeur which belongs only to works of merit. Graceful in 
attitude and expression, with truth of portraiture, and clothed 
in the ample drapery of a doctor's gown, tastefully disposed, 
it is calculated to please the common observer and the refined 
critic. The name and celebrity of Dr. Jenner have extended 
over the globe. 



THE CATHEDRAL. 12? 

Sir G. 0. Paul, Bart. — The same artist has executed a 
splendid monument to the memory of the late highly-respected 
Sir George Paul, which was very lately erected on the south 
side of the nave immediately opposite to Flaxman's beautiful 
specimen of statuary, " The sea shall give up the dead," to 
the memory of Mrs. Morley. Mr. Sievier has been remark- 
ably successful in this work of art, which is composed of a 
sarcophagus, about seven feet in length, resting on claws sup- 
ported by pilasters, which bound on either side the inscrip- 
tion-table. Upon the sarcophagus is placed a fine marble 
bust, giving a likeness of the deceased. The whole is about 
nine feet in height. The table contains the following inscrip- 
tion : — 

To the Memory of 

Sir GEORGE ONESIPHORUS PAUL, Bart. 

who died Jan. 16, 1820, aged 74 years : 

a Man 

endeared to his friends by many virtues, 

both public and private, 

but who claims this mark of local respect 

by having first reduced to practice 

the principles which have immortalized 

the memory of Howard ; 

for to the object of this memorial it is to be ascribed 

that this county has become the 

example and model 

of the best system of criminal discipline, 

in which provident regulation has banished the use of fetters, 

and health been constituted for contagion ; 

thus happily reconciling humanity with punishment, 

and the prevention of crime with 

individual reform. 

The Rev. Richard Raikes. — A very beautiful Monument to 
the memory of this truly philanthropic and estimable charac- 
ter, from the design of Rickman and Hutchinson, Architects, 
Birmingham, has just been erected in our Cathedral. 



128 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

In the composition of this design, it has been endeavoured 
to retain so much of the coldness of composition, and rich- 
ness of detail, found in the various monuments of the age of 
Edward III.* as was compatible with the arrangement of 
modern times, requiring a large space for inscription. The 
monument rises from the floor of the aisle ; the lower part 
consisting of an altar-tomb, flanked by two buttresses at the 
angles; the interior and upper part of the monument stands on 
this altar-tomb, and consists of an arch, also flanked by two 
buttresses at the sides ; the arch is surmounted by a canopy 
with rich crockets and finials, and having in the centre a shield. 
The mouldings of the arch and the points of the cusps, as 
also the spandrels of the latter, are enriched with flowers and 
foliage. The buttresses are united by flying buttresses richly 
crocketed ; and the canopies of the various side buttresses, 
and the pinnacles which terminate the large buttresses, have 
also rich crockets and finials. 

The whole of this monument is executed in Painswick 
stone, and is one of a series erected in various places, from 



* Certain refinements in this kind of architecture grew fashionable 
in or before the reign of Edward III. as is pretty evident from Chau- 
cer's description of the structure of his House of Fame : 

" And eke the hall and everie boure, 

Without peeces or joynings, 

But many subtell compassings, 

As habeuries and pinnacles, 

Imageries and tabernacles, 

I saw and full eke of windows. " 

And in an old poem, called Pierce the Plowman's Creede, written 
before Chaucer's, the author, in describing an Abbey Church, has 
the following lines : 

" Tombes upon tabernacles, tyled upon loft, 
Housed in homes, harde sett abouten 
Of armed alabaustre." 



THE CATHEDRAL. 129 

the designs of Rickman* and Hutchinson ; in which, from 
the employment of stone as the principal material, instead of 
marble, they have been enabled to produce effects, resem- 
bling those of works of an early date, at far less cost than 
is usually incurred for extremely plain works in marble. 

It may, perhaps, be questioned, whether the present fashion 
of excluding totally from our most costly tombs all architec- 
tural ornament, and making them merely groups of sculpture, 
which have no effect at all when viewed from a distance, and 
on a nearer approach have nothing appropriate to their sacred 
situation, produces an effect either so splendid or so charac- 
teristic as the combination of architecture with sculpture, 
which the ancient monumental edifices, if they may be so 
called, present. 

It will no doubt be gratifying to the inhabitants of Glouces- 
ter, that a sepulchral monument, which, in elegance of de- 
sign and delicacy of sculpture, is one of the most perfect 
specimens of the style of architecture which prevailed in the 
fourteenth century, should decorate our magnificent Cathe- 
dral.f It will necessarily more frequently call to remembrance 
so estimable a character as the late Mr. Raikes, than if the 
same had been erected at the place of his interment. 

* Mr. Rickman is perhaps better acquainted with the Gothic Archi- 
tecture than any person in this kingdom. His justly celebrated book 
on this subject has already gone through three editions, and is un- 
questionably superior to any other publication of the kind. 

f An elegant writer on this subject, the Rev. F. D. Fosbroke, has 

most pathetically lamented the decay of gothic architecture : 

" Doom'd to hide her banish'd head, 
For ever gothic architecture fled." 

All men of taste, however, may now congratulate themselves on see- 
ing the revival of an art supposed to be lost ; and the name of Rick- 
man will be transmitted to posterity as the restorer of gothic architec- 
ture. 

f2 



130 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

The following is a copy of the inscription upon the monu- 
ment : 

To the Memory of 

The Rev. RICHARD RAIKES, A.M. 

a native of this city : 

eminent from his youth as a Scholar, 

but still more eminent as a Christian. 

His unfeigned meekness, his unwearied benevolence, 

his unceasing labours, 

exemplified that union of industry and humility, which 

he regarded as peculiarly characteristic of the Christian life. 

These qualities were in him the more conspicuous, 

because maintained for nearly sixty years, 

under the pressure of broken health, 

and continued personal suffering. 

The principle which he felt and avowed as the 

source of his cheerful submission, and 

ready obedience, 

was Faith in his Redeemer : 

on whose merits alone he relied for acceptance. 

He was released from his labours 
September 5th, 1823, in the 80th year of his age. 

BLESSED ARE THE DEAD WHICH DIE IN THE LOUD. 

Osric, King of Northumberland, who died about the year 
729, lies near the entrance of our Lady's Chapel. His effigy 
is in free-stone, with a crown on his head, and against the 
wall is written — 

Osricus rex i primus fundator hujus monaster ii, 681. 
King Osric; first founder of this monastery, 681. 

Near this monument were interred the remains of his sister 
Kyneburgh, daughter of King Penda, and wife of Alfred, 
King of Northumberland; she was the first abbess, in 682. — 
Near to her was buried her sister Eadburgh, second abbess : 
Also Eva, her sister, who was wife of Wulphere, son of 
King Penda : she was the third abbess, in the year 735. — 
Prince Ethelred, and his Princess Elfleda, who founded St. 
Oswald's Priory, were buried in the east porch of St. Peter's 



THE CATHEDRAL. 131 

church ; when the old foundations were dug up, to make 
room for the new, their bodies were found entire. He died 
in 908, she in 920. 

Just as you go up the steps towards King Edward's monu- 
ment, were formerly several stairs down into a place called 
" Purgatory," where the coffins with the bodies were placed, 
and after so many masses were sung, they were permitted to 
be buried. 

Dean Tucker. — On the east wall of the south transept, near 
the place of his interment, is inscribed on his monument — 

Sacred to the memory of the Rev. Josiah Tucker,* D.D. 
Dean of this Cathedral, who in the long period of forty-two 
years, during which he filled that station, was never once obliged 
by sickness, or induced by inclination, to omit or abridge a single 
residence ; and the state of the fabric at the time of his death, 
bore ample testimony to the conscientious and liberal interest 
which he always took in the preservation and improvement of it. 

Distinguished by a vigorous, comprehensive, and independent 
mind, whilst his theological writings acquired him a high rank 
among the ablest divines, he was eminently conspicuous for 
political discernment, on the important subject of national com- 
merce; for the free spirit of which, unrestrained by monopoly 
and colonial preference, he firmly contended against preposses- 
sions long and generally entertained ; and he lived to see his 
opinions established on the sure basis of experience. His pub- 
lications were numerous, and of a nature not so soon forgotten. 
By them, "being dead, he yet speaketh," and will not speak in 
vain, as long as an earnest but well-tempered zeal for the 
established church, an enlarged policy, the true principles of 
commerce, and their alliance with the benign spirit of religion 
shall be understood, respected, and maintained. He died No- 
vember the 4th, 1799, in the 81st year of his age. 

* This celebrated Divine was born at Llangharne, county of Carmarthen, in 
1712 ; his father was a farmer or yeoman. He was educated at Ruthin school, 
irom which he was removed to Jesus College, Oxford, on an exhibition. 
About 1735, he was ordained, and officiated as a Curate in Gloucestershire, 
till he went to Bristol, where he was Minor Canon in the Cathedral, and 
Curate of the parish of St. Stephen, of which he was afterwards Rector. He 
was appointed Chaplain to the Bishop of Bristol, and through his interest raised 
to the Prebendal Stall. In 1758, he was made Dean of Gloucester, in which 
situation he continued till the time of his death. 



IS2 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

William Lisle, Gent. — Against the east wall in the north 
transept is a handsome marble monument, inclosed with iron 
rails, bearing this inscription : — 

Near this place lies the body of William Lisle, Gent, who by 
his will gave fifty pounds a year for ever, in lands at Epney, in 
charity to the parishes of St. Nicholas in Gloucester, and St. 
Werburgh in Bristol. He died Dec. 2, 1723. 

Catherine Pembruge. — At the upper end of the south aisle 
of the nave, a neat marble monument is erected to the memory 
of Catherine, the wife of Wm. Pembruge,* with the following 
inscription, which has always been admired for its classical 
elegance : — 

" Siste gradum viator et a me discito quam vanas spes sint 
quam fiuxa hominum gaudia : Jacet heu ! jacet Catherina mea 
uxorum scil. lectissima, optima ; tarn venusta, tarn casta, tarn 
pia, lit nihil supra; si aetas, si forma defleuda sit, si corporis 
animive dotes, Luctui hie nullus erit modus : marmon hoc 
dicavit Gulielmus Pempruge, gen. memoriae suavissimae conju- 
gis, quaefato defunctaest 15 die Juniian aetatis26, salutis 1690." 

TRANSLATION. 

Stay, traveller, and learn from me how vain are the hopes, 
how fluctuating the joys of mankind. Here lies, alas! my 
Catherine lies, the choicest and best of wives : so modest, so 
chaste, so pious, that nothing could surpass it. If youth, if 
beauty, if the endowments of body or mind, be fit subjects of 
lamentation, grief here must be unbounded. William Pem- 
bruge placed this marble in memory of a most beloved wife, 
who died June 15th, 1690, aged 26 years. 

On the south side of the choir is a shelf monument for 
Bishop Aldred, of Worcester, who built the old church : his 

* This lady was descended from John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, the 4th 
son of King Edward III. (the ancestor of the Beaufort family). The late Wm. 
Pitt, Esq. of this city, was a descendant, ex-parte materna, of Mr. Pembruge, 
and thereby became possessed of his estate at Maisemore, now the property of 
William Goodrich, Esq. The above information Mr. Pitt communicated to 
the Author. 



THE CATHEDRAL. 333 

effigy is carved in freestone on the tomb. — On the north 
side, opposite to Bishop Aldred's tomb, between two pillars, 
is a monument for Abbot Parker. His effigy, in his pontifi- 
calibus, is curiously carved in white marble, lying along the 
tomb. 

Also was buried in Abbot Parker's tomb, Bishop Cheney, 
who, in the days of bloody Queen Mary, opposed transub- 
stantiation, for which he was deposed, but afterwards restored. 

In making a tomb for Abbot Parker, was discovered the 
body of Lady Strongbow, Countess of Pembroke ; also, near 
the place, was found a cross wrapped in a bull's hide. 

No inscription appears to perpetuate the memory of the 
much-lamented Bishop Hooper, who was appointed Bishop 
of Gloucester, 3d day of July, 1550. He was an exemplary 
and learned man, and was very active in the visitation of his 
diocese, (then remarkably abounding with popery,) and 
greatly promoted the Reformation. He was afterwards ap- 
pointed Bishop of Worcester aud Gloucester by Edward VI. 
with authority to nominate all the prebendaries in both Ca- 
thedrals, both bishoprics being united into one. As Bishop 
Hooper strenuously opposed the Bishops Gardiner and Bon- 
nor, they had a peculiar enmity against him ; and when Edw. 
VI. died, it was resolved to make him the first sacrifice. 
Accordingly, on the 1st of September, soon after Mary's 
accession to the crown, he was sent to prison by an order 
from the Queen ; January 28th, 1555, he was brought before 
Gardiner, Bishop of Winchester, and there condemned as an 
heretic. In February, he was degraded of his priesthood by 
Bishop Bonnor, in Newgate, where he had been severely used 
for several months; and afterwards sent from London to 
Gloucester, to be burnt. After a journey of three days, he 
had one day's interval, and on Saturday, the 9th of February, 
being market-day, was led by the Sheriffs, attended by the 



134 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Mayor, &c. to the north-west side of the lower church-yard ; 
where, not being permitted to speak to the people (about 
7000), as he was going, nor at the place of execution, and 
refusing all offers of pardon, they chained him to a stake, and 
burned him with three successive fires made of green wood. 
The good man supported himself, it is said, with all imagin- 
able firmness for about three quarters of an hour, and then 
expired, about the 60th year of his age. 

Copy of the order for burning Bishop Hooper, taken from 
No. 464 in the Cotton Lib. Brit. Mus. Cleopatra E. V. p. 380. 

" Whereas, John Hooper, who of late was called Bushope 
of Worcestere and Glocestere, is, by due ordere of the lawes 
ecclesyastyque, condemnned and judged for a most obstynate, 
false, detestyble heretycke, and commytted to our seculere 
poure, to be burned accordynge to the holsome and good 
lawes of our realme, in that case providede, forasmuch e as, 
in those cittyes and diocyes, therof he hathe in tymes paste 
preached and taughte most pestelente herrecies and doct^ne 
to our subjects theare ; wee have, therfore, geven ordere, 
that the said Hooper, who yet persistethe obstynate, and hath 
refused mercye when it was gratyously ofFerede, shall be put 
to executyone, in the sayd cyttye of Glocestere, for the 
example and terrore theare. And woll that yo re callynge 
unto some of reputacone dwellynge in the sheere, such as yee 
think beste, shall repayre unto o ur sayde cittye, and be at the 
sayd executyone, assystynge o ur mayre and sherifes of the 
same cyttye in his behalfe ; and forasmuche also as the sayde 
Hooper is, as heretickes be, a vayne gloryous person, and 
delytethe in his tonge, and havynge lybertye maye use his 
sayde tonge to persuade suche as he hathe seduced to per- 
syste in the myserable opynyon that he hath sown amongeste 
them, o ur pleasure is thearfore, and wee require yo u to take 
ordere that the sayde Hooper be nether at the tyme of his 



THE CATHEDRAL. 



135 



executyone, nor in goinge to the place thearof, sufferede to 
speak at large, but the other to be lede quietly, and in silence, 
for eschuenge of further infectyon, and such inconvenyencye, 
as maye otherwise ensue in this p ar te. Wherrof faylle yo- u not 
as ye tendere o ur pleasure." 

The Dean and Chapter will not permit any monument to 
be erected in the Cathedral, without a plan of it having been 
previously seen and approved of by them ; by which means, 
none but those that are appropriate can be placed there. 
Perhaps no Collegiate Church in the kingdom has had so 
many judicious alterations and improvements as have, within 
a few years, been made in this magnificent edifice, and such 
as are highly creditable to their liberality and good taste. 



The following are the dimensions of the 
nearly so : — 

Total length and breadth 

of the Nave 

Choir ... 

Transepts, each ... 

Tower, height from ground to leads 

Thence to the top of the spires 

Lady's Chapel ... 
Height of Choir 

of Nave 

of Side Aisles ... 

of Lady's Chapel 

of Choir East Window ... 

Length and breadth of Great Cloisters 



le Cathedral, or 


FEET 


FEET 


... 421 


by 144 


... 171 


by 84 


... 140 


by 3 


... 66 


by 43 


... 176\ 

... 49j 


-by 225 


... 90 


by 27 


... 86 




... 67 




... 40 




... 47 




... 87 




... 144 


by 148 



On a comparative view of the Cathedrals on this island, 
Mr. Dallaway places Gloucester in the twelfth place, for total 



136 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

length; in the thirteenth for length of transept; in the seventh, 
for length of choir ; in the fifteenth, for length of nave ; and 
in the fourth, for height of tower. 



THE COLLEGE GREEN, 



Formerly divided by a cross wall into Upper and Lower 
Church -yard, is partly planted with lime trees, and disposed 
into several pleasant walks. In the upper part, a portion is 
set apart for interment, and has during late years been com- 
pletely secured from that desecration which before was gene- 
rally complained of and lamented, by a handsome range of 
iron pallisades, put up by direction of the Chapter, and paid 
out of the funds of the Cathedral. At the top of the lower 
green, and near the west door of the church, is the Dean's 
house, a roomy building, and under the improving hands of 
successive possessors, modernized in the interior, and made 
convenient. On the south side are houses belonging to 
Prebendaries of the fourth and first stall ; on the west, to the 
.sixth ; and on the north, to the fifth stall. 

The precincts of the Cathedral were formerly bounded by 
a passage or lane on every side. The lane under the south 
wall was granted to the bailiffs and burgesses by composition 
in 1429, and part of it has since been built upon. The inha- 
bitants of the precincts are chargeable to the relief of the 
poor of the city, but in less proportion than the rest of the 
city. 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 137 

PARISH CHURCHES, 
AND OTHER RELIGIOUS HOUSES, 



ST. MARY DE CRYPT, 

Also called " Christ Church" and " St. Mart in the South." 

This is a handsome church, situate on the east side of the 
Southgate-street, consisting of a low aisle ; on each side of 
the nave there is a cross aisle ; and a neat tower with eight 
musical bells in it. There was a small chapel on each side of 
the chancel ; a large porch against the south aisle j and a 
smaller one at the west end. This church, it is said, received 
the name of Crypt (which signifies "a vault,' ' or " charnel- 
house,") from the vaults under it, of which there are two. 
That under part of the south and middle chancel, is thirteen 
yards long, ten broad, and about three deep. The other, at 
the west end, into which there is descent out of the street, 
seems to be larger. It is said that bodies were formerly 
deposited in these vaults. 

The rectory is now in the patronage of the Lord Chancel- 
lor, and formerly belonged to the priory of Lanthony, 1127, 
This church was built by Robert Chichester, bishop of Exon. 
By an ordinance of Parliament, in 1640, the parishes of All 
Saints and St. Owens were united to this parish. 

Upon several bricks in the church and chancel were some 
time ago found the arms of archbishop Deane, and the arms 
of the Berkeley family. 



IS8 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

MONUMENTS AND INSCRIPTIONS. 

In the south chancel, or St. Mary's chapel, against the 
south wall, is a raised tomb, upon the upper part of it, in the 
old character — 

The Tomb of Sir Thomas Bell, Knight, and of 
Dame Joane, his wife. 
Lower on the tomb is a painting of Sir Thomas Bell, kneel- 
ing, in a scarlet gown, with a chain of gold about his neck ; 
also his wife, kneeling, with an escutcheon of their arms 
between them. Inscription, in black character— 
Bereffe this lyfe, hery lyeth under stone 
Sir Thomas Bell, why lorn a Knight of fame : 
Who lyuing here gave foode to many a one, 
And eke behynd provision for the same 
Hathe left in store, for ever to be hadd, 
Amonge the poore that here in towne shall dwelL 
Of lime and stone an Almshowse hath he made 
For six poore folkes, and buylt the same full well, 
Here in this street, fast by the southerne gates, 
And hath the same with ljuelyhood endewede, 
That aye shall last, and never shall abate. 
Thryse, wt free uoyce, eke hathe this towne allowde 
This worthy man a mayor's rome to wealde, 
And thryse him cal'd in parelement to sytt 
Forre wealthe of them in rest at home that dwelde : 
And now hath dealhe his worthy traynale quyte, 
When he had runne of fowerscore yeres the race, 
Whose spryte in May, as pleasyd God prefyxe, 
The syxe and twentie daye, and yere of grace 
A thowsand fjue hundred threscore and syxe, 
This ayer fled into the heauenly sky, 
Where he, God graunt, an everlastynge tyme 
In ioye may lyue, and never more to dye. 

Below on the outside of the tomb, is the following inscrip- 
tion : — 

Dame Joane Bell, the widowe of Sir Thomas Bell, Knyght, 
hath caused this tombe to be made ; and fynished the same the 
xiii day of June, in the yere of our Lord God 1567. 

Near St. John the Baptist's altar lie the remains of John 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 139 

Cook, Esq. who died Sept. 14th, 1529, with Lady Joan Cook, 
his wife, the pious founder of Crypt School. Their effigies 
and inscription were cut on brass, and inlaid in green marble, 
but have been torn off and are lost. There is a beautiful 
marble monument representing Piety, in a sitting posture, 
before her a medallion, in high relief, of Mrs. Dorothy Snell. 
Also a monument to the memory of the late Robert Raikes, 
Esq. the reputed founder of Sunday Schools. Many other 
persons of note have been buried in this church. 

In this parish stood the Friery called the Black Friers, or 
the House or College of Frier Preachers. It was founded 
by King Henry III. and was afterwards surrendered to Richard 
Yar worth, suffragan Bishop of Dover. 

About the year 1540, Sir Thos. Bell employed a number 
of hands in the Friery, in cap-making ; for in the reign of 
Queen Elizabeth high-crowned hats were worn by the men ; 
and in the 13th same reign, a law passed, enacting " That 
" every person above seven years of age, should, on Sundays 
" and Holidays, wear a cap of wool, knit, made, thickened 
" and dressed in England, by some of the trade of cappers, 
" under a penalty of three farthings for every day's neglect." 
Part of the Friery still remains. 

There was formerly, in this parish, a Priory of Black 
Canons, founded by King Athelstan. 

In this parish stood also the Grey Friers, or the House or 
College of Friers Minors, or Franciscans. This house stood 
eastward of the church of St. Mary de Cr^t, and was 
founded by one of the Lords of Berkeley. In the choir of 
this monastery was buried, in the year 1452, the lady of 
James, Lord Berkeley. She had been unjustly imprisoned in 
the Castle of Gloucester, by Margaret, Countess of Shrews- 
bury, and was there kept till she died. Five guardians of the 
poor are returned to the workhouse, annually, by this parish. 



140 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



ST. OWEN'S. 

St. Owen's parish joins onto St. Mary de Crypt, to which 
it was united in 1646, but separated at the Restoration; though 
the Rector of St. Mary de Crypt still performs the parochial 
duties ; and baptisms, marriages, and deaths, are registered 
there. The church was built in the year 1137, and was 
burned down, by order of the Governor, with the rest of the 
suburbs, at the siege of Gloucester. 

In this church stood a guild, or fraternity, dedicated to St. 
John Baptist ; a chantry, dedicated to St. Mary ; an altar, 
dedicated to St. Catherine ; and a Rood-light.* One guardian 
of the poor is returned from this parish. 

In this parish is Kyneburgh's Hospital, with a chapel in 
it, which was sold to Thomas Bell, who, being afterwards 
knighted, built five tenements on the place where the chapel 
stood, and another chamber at the west end of it, for the 
maintenance of six poor people, at Is. 6d. each per week, and 
6d. quarterly. The management lies with the corporation. 
A portion of the old chapel was sold to the fraternity of 
cordwainers for their common hall. On the south-west side 
of it stood a stone monument, whereon was the effigy of a 
young lady, with a coronet on her head. The common 
tradition is, that it was the tomb of one Maud Kimbros, a noble 
lady of great quality, who is said to have been drowned in a 
well on the north part of the chapel, where are visible remains 
of a door supposed to lead to the said well. A few years 
since the hall was taken down, for the purpose of enlarging 
the city prison. 



* Rood-light — a cross dedicated to St. John the Baptist, being a 
cross with candles placed on the top, bottom, and sides of it. 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 141 

ALL SAINTS, OR ALLHALLOWS. 

This was a small church, consisting of one aisle, with a 
chancel. By an ordinance of Parliament, in 1648, it was 
united to that of St. Mary de Crypt. On account of this 
union, the Corporation pays annually £2. 13s. towards re- 
pairing the church of St. Mary de Crypt. Part of the chapel 
wall now stands ; on the other part of it the present Tolsey 
is built, where the mayor and aldermen meet and transact 
public business. 



ST. JOHN BAPTIST. 

This church was built in 1732 — 1734, and extends a little 
on the north side of the lower Northgate-street. It is a 
rectory, depending upon the benevolence of the parishioners. 
The Lord Chancellor is patron ; but before the dissolution, 
it belonged to the Abbey of St. Peter, and it was appropri- 
ated by abbot Hameline to the precentor, for maintaining the 
feast of St. Oswald. It is said that the old church was built 
by King Athelstan, and consisted of a large nave and south 
aisle of the same length ; a chancel, a slender steeple at the 
west end of the aisle, and a large porch on the north side. 
It was a stone building, 80 feet long and 50 broad. Soon 
after the old church was pulled down, & new one was built, 
which consists of three aisles, of which, the middle one is the 
widest. The old steeple being found to be strong, it was left 
standing, with a peal of six unmusical bells. The parliament 
in 1648, united St. Catherine's to this parish, which was 
annulled at the Restoration. The benefice has been augmented 



142 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

by Mr. Hodges' legacy and Queen Anne's bounty; besides 
which, £3. a-year are left for prayers on Wednesday, and 
10s. for a sermon. Francis Turner Bayley, A.M. is the present 
incumbent. The building and seating cost ,£1100. raised by 
briefs, parochial assessments, and contributions. 

In the steeple before mentioned were five bells, and a 
saint's bell, formerly rung at the elevation of the host, that 
all persons might then fall on their knees. 

In the old church was a chapel dedicated to St. Bridget ; a 
chapel dedicated to St. Thomas, wherein abbot Thokey, with 
the consent of the rector, in 1390, ordained that the rectors 
of the church should say mass every week ; a chantry dedi- 
cated to St. Mary ; a chantry dedicated to St. Ann ; a chantry 
dedicated to Holy Rood, or Cross ; light of St. Nicholas ;* 
and the light of St. Catherine. 

It is stated, in Mr. Rudge's History, that after the battle 
of Boswortji field, in 1485, wherein King Richard III. was 
slain, Francis Viscount Lovell and Lord Stafford fled to this 
church for sanctuary ; but Stowe says, that Francis Viscount 
Lovell and Humphrey Stafford, with Thomas Stafford, his 
brother, (not the two Lord Staffords, father and son), took 
sanctuary in this church. It was usual to seek refuge in 
these places, the priest, as at Tewkesbury, after the defeat 
of Queen Margaret, bringing out the host to stop pursuit of 
the fugitives. 

Richard Boyden was the last incumbent of it, and was 
allowed a pension of <£4. at its dissolution. This may appear 
a very trifling pension ; yet the matter will be seen in a very 
different light if we compare the price of things now, with 
what they were formerly. In the reign of King Henry VIII. 



* Light of St. Nicholas— money left to pay for the lighting up of 
candles before the image of St. Nicholas. 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 143 

a farmer (by way of discount out of his rent) reckoned only 
£1. 6s. Sd. for the vicar's diet for the whole year; so that 
£5. a year then, would maintain any one in great honour and 
credit. 

MONUMENTS AND INSCRIPTIONS. 

Upon a large grave stone in grey marble, which was in the 
chancel before the old church was demolished, was a brass 
plate, on which the effigy of a man at length, between two 
wives and several children, was engraven, and the following 
inscription, in old black characters : — 

Here under buried John Semys lieth, 

Which had two wives, the first Elizabeth : 

And by her six sons, and daughters five ; 
Then after by Agnes, his second wife, 

Eight sons, seven daughters — good plenty, 
The full number in all of six-and-twenty. 
He passed to God in the month of August 15, 1540. 

Upon an ancient stone, with a large engraving on brass, are 
the effigies of a man in armour, and a woman attired in her 
proper habit. The man has a sword by his side, his spurs on, 
and at his feet a greyhound couchant. 

Here lies John Briggs and x-Vgnes his wife. 
He died 19th April, 1483, and she in a little time after. 
God give them joy and everlasting life, 
That pray for John Briggs and Agnes his wife. 

A curious fact is recorded among the Epitaphs : — One 
Francis Yeate, cordwainer, at the time of his death, had 
seven apprentices, six of whom carried him to the grave in 
February 1699, and the seventh preached his funeral sermon. 

Abel Wantner, who compiled collections for the county, 
lies buried in this church, and happy it is for his memory 



144 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

that they were never published Also seven persons who 
had served the office of Mayor in this city. 

Three guardians of the poor are appointed annually by this 
parish. 



ST. MICHAEL. 

The church is large, consisting of two aisles of equal dimen* 
sions, and a square tower at the west end with six bells in it. 
The largest bell but one is rung every night at eight o'clock. 
Formerly, as soon as this bell began to ring, the inhabitants 
were obliged to put out their fire and candle, under a penalty 
for their neglect. There is a smaller bell in the tower which 
rings at certain hours, to give notice of the beginning of 
market ; and it also rings when a fire happens in the city. 
It formerly belonged to St. Peter's Abbey, in 1285. It is a 
rectory, in the gift of the Lord Chancellor. By an ordinance 
of Parliament, in 1646, the parishes of St. Aldate and St. 
Mary de Grace were annexed to it, but were again separated 
at the Restoration. In 1653, the church, which was much 
decayed, was underbuilt with three new pillars. 

Abbot Malvern gave several rich vestments to this church, 
in 1499, for establishing a yearly orbit, or office for the dead. 

Mr. Charles Trippet, prebendary of Sarum, who was born 
in Gloucester, gave the interest of ,£600. to the minister to 
read prayers twice a day ; and Mr. Francis Yate gave £200. 
to be applied to the same use. Mr. Richard Elly left a good 
house and garden for the minister to live in, and a house 
to the parish clerk and his successors for ever. Part of this 
parish is without the city, and is called the out-hamlet of 
Barton St. Michael, to distinguish it from that part which is 
within the liberties of the city. 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 145 

In this parish was a fraternity of brethren and sisters, de- 
dicated to St. John the Baptist, who enjoyed and inhabited 
a certain house in the Eastgate-street, called Brethren-hall. 
The pretended Jewish Synagogue is the remains of this hall, 
as appears by unquestionable evidence. In order to ascer- 
tain the fact, the author waited on the proprietor, Mr. Bowyer, 
and requested his permission to examine his title deeds, and, 
having obtained his consent so to do, he found a regular de- 
duction of title from Henry VIII. to the present time; 
and in all the deeds the house is described by the name of 
St. John's Hall. There was a curious monument in this 
church, (viz. — a brass of a man between two women, with 
the figures of a bell and pot on three legs) to the memory of 
Wm. Henshawe, a bell-founder, and Agnes and Alice, his 
wives ; which has been thought to presume the great antiquity 
of that branch of business in Gloucester, afterwards so 
eminent here under the name and family of Rudhall. The 
church is a great ornament to the city, from the neatness and 
elegance of its structure ; for though there are some marks 
of impure gothic, the harmony of the whole is well preserved. 
The Rev. John Kempthome is the present rector. 

Five guardians are returned to the Workhouse by this 
parish, 



ST. MARY DE GRACE, 
Also called St. Mary in the Market. 

This church stood in the Westgate-street ; it kad a spire 
steeple, and stood on a place now known by the name of the 
Knapp. It was a rectory, and anciently a chapel to the Holy 
Trinity. This church was united to St. Michael in the year 



146 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

1648; but since the Restoration the parishes have been 
separate and distinct. 

In this church was a chantry for singing, and a director was 
appointed for the singers. In Grace-lane was a college, called 
the Priest's College. 

In 1648, the church was converted into a magazine for 
ammunition. 

In 1654, this church was entirely taken down by order 
of the Corporation, and part of the materials were used in 
repairing St. Michael's church. 

Two guardians are appointed by this parish. 



ST. ALDATE'S. 

This was a low-spired church, covered with shingles, or thin 
boards ; it consisted of one aisle. It was dedicated to St. 
Aldate, Aldaet, or Eldad, and was a rectory formerly belong- 
ing to the priory of Deerhurst. By an ordinance of Parlia- 
ment, this parish was united to St. Michael's, and the church 
was ordered to be pulled down in 1653, and St. Michael's 
Church ordered to be repaired with part of the materials. 
Since the Restoration, the two parishes have been divided. 

In this church was a chantry dedicated to St. Mary; a 
fraternity dedicated to St. John, the light of St. Catherine, 
and the light of the Holy Cross. 



ST. ALDATE'S CHAPEL 

Was built about 1750, on or near the spot where the old 
church stood, and Sir Thomas Bell gave a house to the 
parish towards keeping the church in repair ; but its greatest 
benefactor was Mrs. Elizabeth Aram, who, by her will, be- 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 147 

queathed £500 towards building the said chapel. She was 
buried in the nave or body of the Cathedral. This chapel is 
united to the church of St. John Baptist. Francis Turner 
Bayley, M. A. is the present incumbent. — One guardian of 
the poor is chosen from this parish. 



ST. NICHOLAS. 

This church stands on the north side in Westgate-street. 
It consists of a handsome nave with an aisle on each side of 
it, and a vestry at the east end of the north aisle. At the 
west end of the nave is a square tower with a spire on it. It 
has been taken down several yards, as it was feared that it 
would fall. On the spire is a mural coronet, whence it has 
been conjectured that the church was built by King John, 
who was once Earl of Gloucester. King Henry III. at the 
request of his Queen, gave it to St. Bartholomew's Hospital, 
in the 13th year of his reign ; and Pope Gregory, by his bull, 
confirmed it to the Hospital. It was afterwards granted, 
with the said Hospital, by Queen Elizabeth, to the Mayor 
and Burgesses of Gloucester. 

At the east end of the church a very splendid monument 
is erected to the memory of John Walton, Alderman of 
this city, who died in 1626, on which lie the effigies of 
Mr. Walton, in his aldermanic robe, and also of his wife. 
The figures are painted, and on examining them minutely, it 
appears they are nor marble but freestone. The execution of 
these figures is in the same stjde as the celebrated one of 
Blackleach, in the cathedral. An engraving of this very fine 
specimen of art was made many years ago by Bonnor, for 
Bigland's History of Gloucestershire, but no notice has been 
taken of it by other historians. 



148 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

The church, when in its glory, was a fine gothic structure, 
having a slender graceful tower of three stories, with angular 
buttresses and large windows, the effect of which is much 
injured by the stump of the spire — like an amputated thigh in 
ancient statuary. It certainly inclined a little in one direc- 
tion, and the sapient inhabitants of the parish had it taken 
down for fear of its tumbling. Perhaps they never heard of 
the falling towers at Pisa, and Caerphilly Castle, the latter of 
which hangs nearly eleven feet out of a perpendicular. 

There were in this church — 1st, a chantry, or place for 
singing, dedicated to St. Mary ; 2d, another chantry, dedi- 
cated to St. Katherine, at which a light was provided for 
William Sandford and Owen Windsor, by the Prior of St. 
Bartholomew's ; 3rd, a chantry, for one priest, founded by 
the will of Thomas of Gloucester, dated May 18, 1446 ; 4th, 
an altar, dedicated to St. Thomas, at which the prior, or 
one of the brethren of the said Hospital, officiated for the 
souls of Sandford and Windsor; and a light burning for 
them from sun-rising to sun-setting, at the high altar ; and 
another taper burning before the cross. 

Six guardians are returned to the Workhouse. 

St. Bartholomew's Hospital is in this parish, and is 
situated between the bridges, on the north side of the 
Westgate-street. It is said to owe its origin to William 
Myparty, a burgess of Gloucester, who, when Nicholas Wal- 
red, clerk, began to build the west bridge, in the reign of King 
Henry II. gave him a piece of land, whereon the hospital now 
stands, and built a house upon it for the convenience of 
Walred and his workmen ; and retiring to it himself, with 
several other persons of both sexes, they all lived there 
together (in hermetical habits) under the government of a 
priest, upon the charity of well-disposed persons. But King 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 149 

Henry III. on the 26th of June, in the 13th year of his reign, 
being at Gloucester, gave them the church of St. Nicholas ; 
and from that time the house was called the Hospital of St. 
Bartholomew the Apostle. Soon after, the same King, upon 
their petition, granted them liberty to choose a prior ; and 
on the 12th of September, in the 49th year of his reign, gave 
them 16 ells of land in length, and five in breadth, to betaken 
cut of the street for the enlargement of their chancel. — There 
Was formerly a chapel in this hospital, dedicated to St. Ursula. 
By the interest of Mr. Pates, recorder of the city, Queen Eli- 
zabeth, by letters patent, granted this hospital to the mayor 
and burgesses of Gloucester, with the patronage of the office 
of master. No person can be admitted into this, nor the hos- 
pitals of St. Margaret and Mary Magdalen, under the age of 
fifty-two years. 

The old Hospital, which was founded by one of the Bur- 
gesses of this city, in the reign of Henry III., was taken 
down a few years ago by the Corporation, and rebuilt in a 
very handsome style. The learned Fosbroke calls it a pseudo- 
gothic Building. Indeed it is not by any means correct as a 
Gothic edifice, as it exhibits various specimens of that species 
of architecture of the earlier and more modern periods. How- 
ever, it is a convenient habitation, where a great number of 
aged persons, of both sexes, are accommodated with separate 
rooms, and receive the sum of 4s. 6d. per week each. The 
Corporation of Gloucester are the trustees of this excellent 
charity ; and the Bishop of the Diocese is authorised, by Act 
of Parliament, to visit the Hospital every third year to see 
that the Statutes be observed, which were drawn up by 
Archbishop Laud, in the year 1636. There is a chapel in 
the Hospital, in which divine service is performed every day. 



150 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



NEW CHURCH OF ST. MARY DE LODE, 

Called also St. Mary before the gate of St, Peter, St. Mary 
Broabgate, and St. Mary Le Port. 

This Church, the body of which has lately been entirely 
rebuilt, was erected by Mr. J. Cooke, of this city. The front 
of it exhibits a very beautiful specimen of the gothic of the 
fifteenth century, and does great credit to the abilities of the 
architect. The west window is ornamented with painted glass * 
representing the arms of the Bishop and of the Dean and 
Chapter, and also the cap of maintenance, which were 
executed by Mr. Daniel, of this city, under the direction of 
the Rev. Mr. Mutlow, late Vicar of the parish of St. Mary 
de Lode. The Rev. John Bishop is the present Vicar. 

The old chancel has not been taken down, which is much 
to be regretted, as it might have been rebuilt in a style* to 
correspond with the new church. It is to be hoped, however, 
that the Dean and Chapter of our Cathedral, who are the 
impropriators, and to whom the chancel belongs, will not 
suffer it to remain in its present mutilated state. The tower 
of the old church is still remaining ; there was anciently a 
lofty spire upon it, which was demolished by a storm. 

The old church of St. Mary de Lode retained more marks 
of antiquity than any other ecclesiastical building in this city, 
the Cathedral excepted. Popes Urban the Sixth and Boni- 
face the Ninth appropriated the revenues of this church to the 
service of the Abbey of Saint Peter. There were in this 
church, first, a Chantry dedicated to St. Mary, and secondly, 
a Fraternity dedicated to the Holy Trinity. The west door, 
the circular arches of the south and part of the north side, 
with the pillars that supported them, were of a period prior 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 151 

to the Conquest. The two pointed arches at the east end of 
the north range were the alterations of a much more modern 
date. 

Near the west end of the south aisle, was. a very ancient 
flat-stone, covering the grave of a hermit, which had a cross 
bottonee upon it. In one of the Bodleian MSS. is the figure 
of a monk carrying a staff topped by a cross bottonee, which 
was a peculiar designation of religious persons in lower holy 
orders. The following inscription in black letters was visible 
thereon : — " Here lies John Bentra, one of the hermits of 
Senbridge."*' 

In the chancel, on the north side, was a recumbent figure 
of considerable antiquity, but certainly not of King Lucius, 
w T ho is said, in Colter's Historical Dictionary, to have been 
buried here. Archdeacon Rudge, in his History of the City 
of Gloucester, says that the honour is claimed, with some 
more show of probability, by the Church of Winchester, and 
that the costume of this effigy does not correspond with so 
early a period. The learned Fosbroke, in his elaborate and 
interesting History of the City of Gloucester/ states that 
it is a figure of a religious person, and has the robe of 
a monk, as well as the arms crossed upon the breast, which 
was the common attitude of these religious. In fact, it 
is a very difficult matter to ascertain where Lucius was 
buried. It is recorded that, in the reign of Marcus Aurelius 
A.D. 165, he was converted to Christianity,-)- and that he 
built a great number of churches in London ; but it is not 
likely the Romans would suffer it. It is also said that he 
converted several nations, especially the Grisons, in whose 

* Sembridge, or Saintbridge, was an ancient hermitage, distant 
about two miles from this city, and is now the property and residence 
of Jas. Wintle, Esq. 

f Bede L. 1. C. 4 



152 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

country he was martyred. The figure is now restored to its 
former situation, under an arch in the north side of the chan- 
cel. Mr. Gough, in his book on Sepulchral Monuments, says 
that tombs, with heads or bodies emerging from them and 
under arches, and tombs with arches over them, are of the 
thirteenth century; also that monuments within the sub- 
stances of the walls of churches or chapels is good authority 
for supposing them founders or re-founders, and that the figure 
in question shews that it, as well as the church in the main, 
is of the thirteenth century, and belongs to the person by 
whose means or architectural skill the fabric was erected. 
The writer of this article begs leave to differ in opinion from 
so great an authority. The church, in the main, was certainly 
of Norman architecture. The chancel only is early English, 
and that, as well as the figure, are of the thirteenth century. 
Mr. Fosbroke states, that the sacrilegious persons who lived 
in the time of the civil wars were better rogues than antiqua- 
ries, for they opened this tomb in hopes of finding valuable 
treasures in it, but were disappointed. It was opened again 
a few years since, but was found to contain nothing but 
rubbish. 

Camden, as well as Collyer, says, that King Lucius was 
buried in the parish church of Saint Mary de Lode. 

In the Gloucester Journal of August 22, 1825, a description 
is given of a beautiful tesselated pavement which had been 
discovered in the church-yard of St. Mary de Lode, about 
five feet below the surface of the earth, and that the walls 
of the old church then were built upon it. This pavement has 
been suffered to remain, and the present structure is erected 
upon it. 

This parish was formerly intersected by a channel of the 
Severn, now filled up or at least reduced to a small brook, 
which falls into the river at the head of the Quay : to this 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 153 

circumstance the name is owing, Lode being Saxon for a 
ferry or passage. The land adjoining it belongs to the Cor- 
poration of this city, and retains the name of Old Severn. 
In old records it is mentioned under the title of Little Severn, 
and sometimes Old Severn. The course of it was from Long- 
' ford Ham down Tween Dyke (vulgarly called Queen Dick), 
round the east sides of Meanham, skirting St. Oswald's 
Priory, where was once a Quay, and proceeding to the 
Foreign-bridge into the present channel at the Quay. The 
ancient channel was removed in consequence of a dispute 
between the Monks of the Priory of St. Oswald's and the 
townsmen. 



HOLY TRINITY. 

The church of the Holy Trinity stood in the middle of the 
Westgate-street, and consisted of one aisle, with a beautiful 
tower at the west end of it. 

It was anciently a rectory, but in the year 1391 it became 
a vicarage, and was appropriated to St. Peter's abbey. — By 
an ordinance of Parliament, in 1648, this parish was united 
to St. Nicholas ; but, at the Restoration, the ordinance was 
annulled, and the parish became distinct and separate. In 
1698, the church, which for a long time had been in a ruinous 
condition, was taken down. The beautiful- tower was suf- 
fered to remain, because, according to the notion of those 
times, it was of public use as well as ornament to the city ; 
and beneath it a conduit was erected (in 1702); but by vir- 
tue of an Act of 23d George II. it was taken down, and the 
materials made use of in re-building the parish church of 
LTpton-upon- Severn. 

In this church were the following particulars : — 1st, a chan- 

62 



154 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

try, dedicated to the Holy Jesus; 2d, another chantry, de- 
dicated to St. Mary; 3d, a fraternity, dedicated to St. Thomas 
a Becket. — Three guardians are chosen for the Workhouse. 



ST. CATHERINE'S, alias ST. OSWALD'S. 

This parish is situate partly in the city and partly in the 
liberties thereof. St. Oswald, King of Northumberland, in the 
year 634, who was a devout and religious Prince, was killed 
by the Danes ; his relics first were carried to the Abbey of 
Bardney in Lincolnshire; but upon the approach of the Danes 
afterwards to these parts, they were removed to this place by 
order of Ethelred and the famous Princess Ethelfleda, who 
richly entombed his body, and built a college here, for secular 
priests, and dedicated it to the honour of St. Oswald ; but 
afterwards it was converted into a priory of regular canons. 
In the battles fought in and about this place, a great number 
of men were slain on both sides, who were buried in large pits 
dug for that purpose at and near a place called the Kingsholm, 
or Kingsholme. 

This priory had anciently a free chapel, with a spire steeple, 
standing upon the banks of the old river Severn, dedicated 
to St. Katherine, which afterwards became the parish church. 

Thurstan, archbishop of York, pulled down the old church, 
which was very spacious, built a new one, at great expense, 
and enlarged and repaired St. Oswald's tomb. 

There was a chantry in this church dedicated to St. Kathe- 
rine, and another called the charnel service. 

In 1648, the church, with its materials, was given to the 
corporation of the city. The church-yard is now made use 
of, to bury the parishioners in. 



PARISH CHURCHES, ETC. 155 

In the church-yard there is a raised tomb with the follow- 
ing inscription : — 

Here lieth old Mr. Richard Tally, 

Who lived C and 3 years fully ; 
He did the sword of the city beare, 

Before the mayor thirty-one yeare. 
Four wives he had, and here they lie, 

All waiting Heaven's eternity. 
He died March, 1619. 

In this parish is the site of the Priory of St. Oswald. 
This house stood M.N.W. of St. Peter's Abbey, upon the 
bank of the Severn, near the old quay or wharf, and was 
many years in the possession of the Rev. John Newton. 
The best accounts that can be procured concerning this priory 
are from the " Saxon Chronicle," and from Bishop Tanner's 
" Monasticon." 

In the wars with the Danes, the monks were driven away, 
and from that time it became a college of secular priests, and 
was accounted a free chapel royal. They denied the juris- 
diction of the archbishop of Canterbury. At a provincial 
council held at Lambeth, in 1210, archbishop Peckham pro- 
nounced his sentence against the prior and convent, by which 
he commanded that no person should presume to sell them 
any bread, wine, or victuals, for their sustenance, to pay them 
any tithes, to buy any thing of them, or to have any com- 
merce with them. But the King issued his mandate to the 
bishop of Worcester, prohibiting the exercising any ecclesi- 
astical jurisdiction over the priory, its liberties or privileges, 
which put a stop to any further proceedings. — This parish 
appoints one guardian of the poor. 

In the year 1824, the remains of the priory were disposed 
of by public auction, and on digging out the foundations, the 
workmen found a bone of prodigious size, which, upon ex- 
amination, appeared to be one of the vertebrae of a whale, or 



156 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

some other animal of large dimensions. It measured upwards 
of five feet in circumference. It was not in a fossilized state, 
the cancelli were open and the cartilages at each end perfect. 
It will hardly be believed that, in the nineteeth century, the 
Vandal who discovered this curious remain of antiquity, which 
in all probability was left there by the deluge, should have 
taken it home with him and made use of it as a chopping 
block for nearly a twelvemonth, until it came into the posses- 
sion of the writer of this article, who has since presented it 
to the Museum of Natural History recently established in 
this city. 



THE WHITE FRIERS, OR COLLEGE OF 
CARMELITES. 

This house stood without the lower North-gate, towards 
the west end of the meadow called Frier's ground. It was 
founded by Queen Eleanor and others. Great part of the 
friery seems to have been destroyed about the year 1567 ; yet, 
in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, several of the buildings 
belonging to it remained, and the house of correction, for the 
luse of the city, was kept in part of it. This college was 
totally destroyed in the civil wars. 

Nicholas Cantelupe, by some called " Nicholas of Glou- 
cester," who was a Carmelite, presided over the convent. 
He was succeeded by David Boys, or Boetius, a Carmelite, 
who died about the year 1450 or 1451, and was buried among 
his brethren in the convent. 



RELIGIOUS HOUSES, ETC. 157 

ST. MARGARET'S HOSPITAL. 

This Hospital was built in honour of the sepulchre of our 
Lord and St. Margaret. It was called " The Hospital (or 
House) of the Lepers- of St. Sepulchre's, and St. Margaret's;" 
also, " The Lower House of Dudstan," and is about a quar- 
ter of a mile from Gloucester. 

There were formerly houses of this kind in most cities and 
considerable towns in England, Ireland, Germany, &c. No 
longer ago than Cromwell's time, the leprosy was very 
common in Ireland. The disease formerly prevailed in those 
parts where the air was bad and the diet unwholesome ; but 
the causes of bad air are now, in a great measure, removed 
from us, by cutting down our large forests, draining our 
marshes, and cultivating Our lands. This loathsome disease 
was also occasioned by the people living so much upon salmon 
and other fish, which every river and brook abounded with. 
The English limited the use of such unwholesome food, and 
forbade it at a certain season of the year. They introduced 
the planting of colwerts and other garden-stuff^ in conse- 
quence of which, the poor people were cured, and the many 
hospitals expressly built to receive the lepers are now gone 
to ruin. 

It was formerly a standing condition in the indentures of 
apprenticeship at Gloucester, that the apprentice should not 
be obliged to eat salmon more than thrice a week ; which was 
undoubtedly intended as a precaution against this grievous 
disorder. 

The founder of this hospital, and the time of its foundation, 
are equally unknown : it consisted of a master or supervisor, 
a prior, a chaplain, and brethren and sisters. Alured, bishop 
of Worcester, in 1 158, granted to these lepers liberty to bury 



158 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

in their own church-yard, which evidences the foundation to 
have been of great antiquity. It now maintains eight men at 
4s. each per week ; at Christmas, a gift of 9s. 6d. ; and at 
Midsummer, 5s. each. 

On the S.W. side of the hospital stands a small chapel. 
At the east end were the prior's lodgings, the old hall of 
which was converted into a barn in the 31st year of Queen 
Elizabeth : and at the siege of the city, in 1643, some of the 
King's forces took up their quarters in the hospital, which 
seems to have been then very much damaged. 



ST. MARY MAGDALEN'S, OR KING JAMES'S 
HOSPITAL. 



This house is situate northward of St. Margaret's, and was 
therefore called "The Upper House (or Hospital) of Dud- 
stan." The prior of Lanthony is acknowledged as the 
founder, and used to supply it weekly with a certain quantity 
of bread. 

At some distance from the hospital, on the west side, next 
the highway, is a chapel which was called a parish church. 

The number of poor people at present maintained m it, 
amounts to ten men and nine women, with an allowance of 
3s. per week each, and at Midsummer a gift of 9s. 6d. each 
to buy coal. 

THE PRIORY OF LANTHONY 

Is situate on the right hand of the Bristol road, and may be 
seen just without the city. It was founded in 1136, and the 
ground whereon this priory stood was given by Milo, Consta- 
ble of Gloucester, to Milo, Earl of Hereford, and the canons 



RELIGIOUS HOUSES, ETC. 159 

of Lanthony, who built them a convent and church, and had 
it consecrated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. A very small part 
of the ruins is now standing. The foundation of the church, 
and other parts, were discovered when the canal was digging. 
It is now an object of curiosity only for the historical anec- 
dotes which are related of its former fortunes, and the connec- 
tions it had with an abbey of the same name in Monmouth- 
shire. The following account, as extracted from the monkish 
writings, may be found amusing :— Milo de Laci granted a spot 
of ground, called Hyde, near Gloucester, to the monks of 
Lanthony abbey, in Monmouthshire, who were obliged to 
leave that situation on account of the continued insults and 
interruptions they received from a neighbouring Welshman. 
On this spot they built a church, and called it Lanthony, after 
the name of the former church. This was intended only for a 
temporary residence, and was a cell to the ancient monastery, 
to which the majority of the monks were enjoined to return on 
the restoration of peace and tranquillity. Milo and his family 
endowed the new establishment with large possessions, and at 
length it rose so much in opulence and splendour, that it even 
claimed a pre-eminence over the mother church. The new 
situation was also so far superior to the vale of Ewias, that they 
were unwilling, and absolutely refused, to relinquish their 
present comforts for the wild deserts of Wales. The Monk 
of Lanthony pours forth, in pathetic language, his sad com- 
plaints on the desolated state of the mother church. " When 
the storm (said he) subsided, and peace was restored, then 
did the sons of Lanthony tear up the bounds of their mother 
church, and refuse to serve God as their duty required : for 
they used to say there was much difference between the city 
of Gloucester and the wild rocks of Haytrel — between the 
river Severn and the brook of Hodani — between the wealthy 
English and the beggarly Welsh. There fertile meadows — 



160 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

here barren heaths. Wherefore, elated with the luxuries of 
their new situation, and weary of this, they stigmatized it as a 
place unnt for a reasonable creature, much less for religious 
persons. There they have built lofty and stately offices ; here 
they have suffered our venerable buildings to fall into ruin. 
They permitted the monastery to be reduced to such poverty, 
that the friers were without surplices, and compelled to per- 
form the duties of the church against the custom and rules of 
the order. Our remonstrances either excited their anger or 
ridicule, but produced no alteration. All, therefore, acqui- 
esced ; and God, by his just, though to us unaccountable, will, 
permitted the library to be despoiled of its books ; the store- 
house of its silk vestments and relics, embroidered with gold 
and silver; and the treasury of all its precious goods. What- 
ever was valuable or ornamental in the church of St. John, 
was conveyed to Gloucester without the smallest opposition ; 
even the bells, notwithstanding their great weight, were trans- 
ported to that place." The yearly value of this priory, at the 
dissolution, is said to have been .£640. 19s. lid., which makes 
it appear to have been one of the greatest religious houses that 
was dissolved. So utterly was it abolished, that not one stone 
was left upon another that was not thrown down. All the 
buildings belonging to the priory were likewise destroyed, 
except some of the meanest offices, and the west and south 
gates, with part of the court walls, which were moated round 
— and these are the only remaining marks of its greatness. 

The convent of Lanthony was distant from Gloucester 
about a quarter of a mile, and was a beautiful piece of archi- 
tecture ; the ruins that remain are well worthy the observa- 
tion of the curious. The monks of this monastery were 
governed by a prior. The only prior mentioned in history, is 
Henry Deene, whose register book was extant some years 
ago. St. Owen's parish was formerly annexed to this priory. 



DISSENTING MEETING-HOUSES. 161 



DISSENTING MEETING-HOUSES. 



No preceding writer has given any account of the different 
Sects of Dissenters in this City : the Author has attempted 
to supply this deficiency. 

INDEPENDENTS. 

The meeting-house belonging to the Independents is situ- 
ated in the Lower Southgate-street. Mr. Rudge and other 
historians have most erroneously called this the Presbyterian 
Chapel. It appears that the congregation of Independents in 
Gloucester associated with and worshipped in Barton-street 
until the year 1727, when they separated, and made use 
of a large room belonging to an ancient edifice in the Black 
Friers, formerly called the College of Friers Preachers, and 
now the property and residence of Mr. John Kendall. They 
then retired to the Lower Southgate-street, where, in the 
year 1730, they erected a house for worship, and hence 
arises their origin in Gloucester. Though formerly Presby- 
terian, this society, like most of the English Presbyterians 
that have retained orthodox sentiments, has become indepen- 
dent, or congregational. The Rev. Mr. Bishop has for many 
years been the minister of this congregation, the duties of 
which he has performed with great credit to himself and 
advantage to his hearers. The learned Fosbroke, in his 
History of Gloucester, says, " With all the leading charities 
of the city, this gentleman's name is connected." 

UNITARIANS. 

The meeting-house belonging to the Unitarians is situate in 
Barton-street. It was in existence as far back as the year 
1699. Its first minister was the Rev. James Forbes, who was 
descended from an honourable family in Scotland ; was edu- 



162 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

cated at Aberdeen, where he became Master of Arts ', and 
was admitted to the same degree at Oxford. He was, in 
1654, sent by the powers that then were to the Cathedral at 
Gloucester, to which he was appointed lecturer, to supply the 
place of the Bishop, Dean, and Chapter,* where he preached 
with great success, to the apparent danger of shortening his 
life. He gathered a church, which was chiefly made up of his 
own converts ; and, after six years, he was ejected from the 
Cathedral, when Dean Brough took possession of it, but he 
still continued there, ministering privately as he could. Dr. 
Frampton, who was first Dean, and afterwards Bishop therej 
strongly persuaded him to conform, but he would not. In 
Yarrington's plot, (or Packington's, rather,) he was commit- 
ted to Chepstow Castle, where he was long kept in a strait 
and dark room, as was Col. Overton. When he was dis- 
charged, he returned to his pastoral care, in the pursuit of 
which he suffered divers imprisonments in Gloucester, one of 
which was for a whole year. In the reign of King Charles II. 
he was indicted upon the Corporation Act, the penalty of 
which was imprisonment ; he was also indicted on 23d Jas. I. 
the penalty of which was ,£20. a month ; and upon 35th Eli- 
zabeth, the penalty. of which was to abjure the realm or die ,* 
and, at the same time, he was excommunicated, and the writ 

* Mr. Dorney, in his speech on the election of Luke Nourse, 
Mayor of Gloucester, in the year 1645, says, that he (Luke Nourse) 
had a chief hand in the inviting and calling to us of a worthy minis- 
ter to supply the room of the Bishop, Dean, and Chapter in the 
College ; and in his speech at the election of Lawrence Singleton, in 
the year 1646, he says, " And now, instead of episcopacy, which 
seems to lie in the dust, a presbytery is expected, and preachers 
instead of readers, and a spiritual instead of a formal and pompous 
service." 

In the year 1657, an Act was passed for settling the late Cathedral 
Church upon the Mayor and Burgesses of Gloucester, and their suc- 
cessors, for public, religious, and charitable uses. 



DISSENTING MEETING HOUSES. 168 

de excommunicato capiendo was issued against him. In 
Monmouth's time he retired to Enfield, and continued unmo- 
lested in his ministry. He was afterwards recalled, and 
returned to his own people, although to his disadvantage ; 
and he continued with them to his death, living in good 
fashion, though mostly upon his own. He was, in the whole, 
58 years minister in this city, abundant in labours there and 
in the country round about. In his judgment he was a strict 
Calvinist and a congregational, but of a catholic temper. He 
was a holy, humble, serious, and learned man, full of good 
works, liberal even beyond his ability in life ; and, at his 
death, he, by deed of gift, gave his library, consisting of all 
his books and manuscripts, to trustees, for the use of the 
Protestant Dissenting Ministers of the city, and the Protest- 
ant Dissenting Congregation in the city of Gloucester, and 
also for the use of the Protestant Dissenting Ministers of the 
county of Gloucester, at the discretion of the trustees. 
Between the years 1720 and 1730, a separation took place : 
that part which went to the Southgate-street took the library 
with them, and it has remained at the minister's house and 
the chapel ever since. The objects for which the library was 
given by the benevolent donor have not for many years been 
carried into effect; but, from recent occurrences, it is hoped 
that it will now be opened to all entitled to the use of it. 
Mr. Forbes also gave four silver cups for the communion 
service, together with a sum of money for charitable purposes ; 
but which, through the neglect of filling up the trusts as the 
trustees died, have now been lost for many years. There 
have been some additions made to the library by other per- 
sons since Mr. Forbes's decease. His funeral sermon was 
preached by Mr. Isaac Noble, of Bristol. 

Palmer's Nonconformists' Memorial, Chalmers, Fosbroke, 
Rudge, and many other authors, make honourable mention of 



164 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Mr. Forbes, but they give no account of the place of his inter- 
ment ; and it is a very singular circumstance that his tomb 
was accidentally discovered a short time since (Oct. 1827) 
under the communion table, near the pulpit, in the chapel : 
the coffin was much decayed, and the plate had his arms 
engraved on it, and also a latin inscription, of which the fol- 
lowing is a copy :— 

JACOBUS FORBESIUS, A.M. 

In hac civitate annos circiter 58 

fidelis Christi Minister et testis 

veritatis et pacis evangelical 

arque studiosus. 

Obit 31 Maii, anno mdccxii. 

iEtatis lxxxiii. 

TRANSLATION. 

James Forbes, Master of Arts, a faithful Minister of Christ in 
this city about 58 years, and a zealous witness both of evangelical 
truth and peace. Died May 31st, in the year 1712, aged 83. 

Mr. Forbes was author of the following works : — " An 
Answer to J. Elliott, a Quaker ;" " The Christian Directed 
in his Way to Heaven ;" " God's Goodness to Israel in 
all Ages;" his remains, prefixed to his funeral sermon, viz. 
" A Letter to his People," to be communicated to them after 
his death ; " Sermon before Assembly at Stroudwater ;" 
" Some Instructions, &c. for Youth, concerning their Souls." 

THE SOCIETY OF FRIENDS 

Have been established in this city ever since the reign of 
Charles II. Their meeting-house is situated in Park-street. 
George Fox thus notices Gloucester in bis journal : — " In 
Glocester we had a meeting that was peaceable, though the 
town was very rude and divided ; for one part of the soldiers 
were for the King, and others for the Parliament. And as I 
pass'd out of town over the bridge, a f d being with me, the 



DISSENTING MEETING-HOUSES. 165 

soldiers there s d they were for y e King : when we were gone 
past them, and they understood it was I, they were in a great 
rage that I had escaped them, and s d had they known it, they 
w d have shot me with hail-shot, rather than I should have 
escaped them; but the Lord prevented their devilish design." 
This was A.D. 1660, and is the first notice we have of the 
existence of this people in Gloucester. 

WESLEYAN METHODISTS. 

This denomination of Christians appears to have had a 
small society here from the time the late Rev. John Wesley 
preached his first sermon in this city, on Thursday, July 15th, 
1739. Their assemblies were then in obscure and concealed 
situations ; they afterwards worshipped in a large room which 
formerly was a chapel, and dedicated to St. Kyneburg, vulgarly 
called Kimbrose, belonging to St. Owen's Church, where Mr. 
Wesley occasionally officiated until the time of his death. 
He was certainly one of the most extraordinary characters 
that ever existed, whether we consider him as a various and 
voluminous writer, a zealous and indefatigable preacher, or 
the founder of the most numerous sect in the Christian world. 
By his great exertions in this city, a sense of decency, mora- 
lity, and religion, was introduced into the lower classes of 
mankind : the ignorant were instructed, the wretched re- 
lieved, and the abandoned reclaimed. Mr. W^esley died 
March 2d, 1791, aged 88 years. The present chapel is situ- 
ated in the Lower Northgate-street ; it was built about forty 
years ago, by subscription. The late Mr. George Conibere 
not only gave the land on which the chapel and the house for 
the minister are erected, but subscribed £100. towards build- 
ing the same. A very short time before Mr. Wesley's decease, 
he preached the last sermon at his chapel from the following 
text : — " There is but a step between me mid death" — 1 Sam. 
20th chap, part of the 3rd verse. 



166 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

LADY HUNTINGDON'S CONNECTION. 

A large and respectable society, bearing this name, assemble 
in a chapel in St. Mary's square. Their origin is traced to 
the labours of the late 'Rev. George Whitfield, who was born 
in Gloucester in 1714, at the Bell Inn. He was placed at a 
petty school in this city, and gave early proofs of good elo- 
cution and memory. At fifteen years of age he was well 
versed in the classics ; his fame recommended him to Dr. 
Benson, then Bishop of Gloucester, who made him a volun- 
tary offer of ordination, which Mr. Whitfield accepted,* and 
preached daily in fields, prisons, and open streets. About 
the year 1741, or soon after Mr. Whitfield's second return 
from America, which, in the course of his life, he is said to 
have visited seven times, he entirely separated from Mr. 
Wesley and his friends, " because he did not hold the 
decrees." Mr. Whitfield was chaplain to the Countess Dow- 
ager of Huntingdon. After a long course of peregrination, 
he died at Newbury Port, New England, Sept. 30, 1769. 
His followers worshipped in a variety of places in this city, 
until the year 1788, when the Countess of Huntingdon pur- 
chased the present building, which was then used as a 
theatre, and fitted it up as a chapel. 

THE BAPTIST CHAPEL. 

The Baptist Chapel is situated near the lower end of the 
Eastgate-street, and is very numerously attended. This edi- 
fice was erected a few years since, at the sole expence of 
George Box Drayton, Esq. late of this city, who constantly 
officiated there as minister. It has been customary to call 
the members of this sect Ana-Baptists ; but that is a very 

* He preached his first sermon in the parish church of St. Mary 
de Crypt, in this city, from whence he took his title. 



DISSENTING MEETING HOUSES. 167 

erroneous appellation, and conveys a stigma which they do 
not deserve. This body of Christians consider immersion in 
water as essential to Christian baptism ; and they disapprove 
of the admission of infants to their ordinance. 



THE JEWS' SYNAGOGUE 

Was formerly in the Eastgate-street, on which reason it was 
known by the name of Jewry-street, or Judaismous, on ac- 
count of the Jews, many of whom settled here. In the 
reign of Henry the Second, during the abbacy of Hammeline, 
(1160) the Jews contrived to steal a boy of the name of 
Herald, and after having kept him concealed, from the 20th 
of March to the 16th of April, they put him to death with 
extreme tortures. A great number of Jews had assembled 
from different parts of England, in Gloucester, under pre- 
tence of circumcising a boy of their own religion, and cele- 
brating the feast of the Passover, according to the law. 
Whether they crucified him, or what was the nature of the 
tortures they inflicted, does not clearly appear. Brompton, 
page 1047, and Hen. de Knyghton, p. 2393, mention, that 
a boy was crucified at Gloucester (Glovernia) in 1 160, but 
Abbot Frowcester remarks, that no Christian being present, 
nor any discovery having been made from the confession of 
the Jews, conjectures could only be formed from the ap- 
pearances of the dead body. It happened, that on the 
sabbath following the transaction, which that year was on 
the 16th of April, the body was found by some fisher- 
men in the Severn, about nine in the morning, and being 
drawn out, was laid in a house near the place where it 
had been discovered. In this situation it was viewed by 
a great number of clergy and laymen, the following night. 
It was evident that fire had been used as one instrument of 



168 HISTORY Of GLOUCESTER. 

the tortures he had suffered ; his sides, nose, hands, knees, 
and feet, had the appearance of having been roasted ; boil- 
ing fat had been let fall drop by drop over his body, melted 
wax had been poured into his eyes and ears, his teeth 
had been beaten or dropped out in consequence of the 
fire, and a crown of thorns had been fixed around his head. 
—On the evening of the following day, the corpse was carried, 
amidst a vast crowd of people of both sexes, to the church 
of St. Peter, where it was received by the Abbot, and the 
whole convent, with every mark of respect, the great bells 
ringing during the procession. The same night it was exhi* 
bited to the view of the brethren, washed clean, and more 
accurately examined. On the morrow it was buried, with 
great solemnity, before the altar of Edmund the Archbishop 
and Edward the Confessor, on the north side, and he was 
honoured with the title of martyr. — MSS. Frowc. p. 130. 

Many instances of similar cruelty were practised by the 
Jews of those days. A Christian child was crucified at Nor- 
wich 1135. Another at St. Edmundsbury 1172. Another at 
Northampton 1279, and another at Lincoln 1255. The body 
of the last was discovered in a wall in the house of one of the 
Jews, by John de Lexington, begged by the Canons of the 
church, and after the fullest view by numbers of people, in- 
terred honourably in the Cathedral, as the body of a precious 
martyr. Eighteen wealthy Jews in Lincoln, and more than 
twenty-three in London, suffered public execution on this 
occasion. During the Abbacy, in a MSS. collection, it is said 
they had a synagogue near St. Kimbrose chapel. In all pro- 
bability it is the place where they now assemble, which is not 
very far distant from it. 

The Roman Catholic Chapel is without the Lower 
Northgate-street. 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 169 

PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 



THE BOOTH HALL. 

This was the ancient Guildhall, or place like an Exchange, 
where merchants exposed their wares ; and at what time it 
was converted into an assize court for the county and city 
does not appear. It was rebuilt in 1606, and is a very lofty 
building, full of windows. During part of the reign of James 
the First, it was used as a prison to some of the citizens for 
any misdemeanour. It is a large uncomfortable room, sup- 
ported by double rows of pillars of chesnut timber. In this 
ancient hall was transacted a scene, perhaps unique in judicial 
history, viz. a female sitting as a judge. During the quar- 
rels between Lady Anne Berkeley and her relatives, she fled, 
says Mr. Smyth, to her old master, King Henry VIII. who 
granted her a special commission under the great seal to 
inquire, hear, and determine these riots and other misde- 
meanors, and made her one of the commissioners and of the 
quorum, whereupon she came to Gloucester, and there sat 
on the bench in the public sessions hall, impannelled a jury, 
received' evidence, found Sir Nicholas Poynz and Maurice 
Berkeley and their fellows guilty of divers riots and disorders, 
and fined them. 



THE SHIRE-HALL. 

This magnificent structure presents a specimen of architec- 
tural perfection highly honourable to the taste of Mr. Smirke, 



170 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

and will remain, to a&er ages, a monument of the enlightened 
liberality of the magistracy of the county and city of Glouces- 
ter. The building is constructed wholly with Bath and 
Leckhampton stone. It is 82 feet in front next the Westgate 
street, and extends backwards 300 feet, having another 
entrance from Bareland. The front, which is copied from an 
ancient temple on the Illyssus (vide Stewart's Athenae), is 
remarkably elegant and classically correct. The portico in 
centre, fronting the street, is supported by four columns of 
the Ionic order, 32 feet high, the approach to which and to 
the two side doors is by a flight of steps extending the whole 
width of the building. The centre door opens into the main 
entrance for the public, 100 feet long, 16 wide, and 18 high, 
having the grand jury room for the county and city on the 
right, the offices for the clerk of the peace, clerk of the indict- 
ments, and apartments for the hall-keeper, on the left. 
Facing the extreme end of this avenue is a magnificent stone 
staircase, on the first landing-place of which are two doors 
leading to the gallery of the crown court, and from thence the 
stairs are continued on both sides to the next flight, where 
the entrances are to the great room used for concerts and balls 
at the music meetings, and for other purposes, the dimensions 
of which are 87 feet by 53, and 50 feet high. At the south end, 
against the wall, are the royal arms, and over the doors a fine 
bas relief, nearly 40 feet long, representing the signature of 
magna charta by King John. Both the courts are of semi- 
circular form, 76 feet wide by 38 in depth, and each having a 
gallery capable of containing 400 persons. The object of the 
architect, in the disposition of the courts, has evidently been 
to bring the judge, the magistrates, the jury, the prisoner, and 
the witness, into the most convenient space for the purpose 
of hearing. Both the courts are surrounded by-spacious cor- 
ridors, and the whole of the interior is so arranged as to 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 171 

afford every description of persons attending on business an 
allotted situation. These courts were first made use of at the 
summer assizes (Aug. 26th, 1816,) and Mr. Justice Abbott, 
in his charge to the grand jury, made the following obser- 
vations : — " I have the highest pleasure in offering my congra- 
tulations to you on the completion of the very handsome and 
convenient courts wherein we are now assembled. A build- 
ing has been erected, containing ample and handsome courts, 
and convenient apartments for every class of persons engaged 
in the business of an assize, and this in a style manly and pure, 
suitable to the dignity that always ought to surround the 
administration of justice, and devoid of all that superfluous 
decoration by which, in some places, the expence of edifices 
intended for the same purpose has been greatly increased. 
The accommodation of those persons whose convenience was 
to be provided for, and the interest of those who were to 
defray the expence, appear to have been equally consulted. 
Nothing requisite has been omitted, and nothing unnecessary 
has been introduced." 



THE TOLSEY 

Is a handsome brick building, ornamented with stone, having 
the arms of the city beautifully carved in a triangular pedi- 
ment. Below it the lobby, and a court of justice, where the 
Quarter Sessions were formerly held, but have lately been 
transferred to the Shire-Hall, and above, the Council Cham- 
ber. — In it are beautiful full-length paintings of the late Duke 
of Norfolk, who was High Steward, and one of the Aldermen 
of the city; and of his Royal Highness the Duke of Glouces- 
ter, who has honoured the Corporation with a portrait of 
himself, finely executed by Sir William Beachey. The Tolsey 



172 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

stands on the site of the ancient forum, or capitol, and though 
no remains exist, the appropriation of such a spot to forensi c 
purposes is sufficient. 

THE WORKHOUSE, 

Or House of Industry: — Timothy Nourse, Esq. was the 
founder of this charity, to which, besides a subscription, he 
gave £100 per annum for its support. Sir John Powell, knt., 
one of the Judges of the Court of King's Bench, was the first 
governor. The officers consist of a governor, deputy go- 
vernor, a treasurer, and six special assistants. These are 
chosen annually out of the guardians returned for the different 
parishes. The governor and guardians of the Workhouse 
also superintend the lighting of the city, and have a common 



THE CITY GAOL 

Was built in 1782, on a scale not sufficiently large for the 
number of prisoners; nor were their cells adapted to solitude 
and separation. It has recently been much enlarged and im- 
proved ; to which a chapel has been added, where divine ser- 
vice is performed by a chaplain appointed by the Corporation 
of this city for that purpose. Adjoining to this prison has 
lately been erected a place of confinement, called the Lock- 
up-House; where vagrants and other disturbers of the peace 
are kept under the custody of the Beadle. 



THE COUNTY GAOL, 

Though not strietly connected with the history of the city, as 
being in the county, deserves to be mentioned, both on 
account of the magnitude of its scale, and the important ends 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 173 

it is intended to promote, which are the reformation and reco- 
very of the offender, by solitary confinement and labour, 
rather than punishment, by cutting him off from society. 
The building (with four prisons in the county, of much 
smaller dimensions, cost £34,873. 14s. 4?d.) is erected upon 
the plan of the great Howard, and, under the direction of 
Sir Onesiphorus Paul, Bart , is well calculated for the purpose 
of punishment, reflection, and reformation. It contains 203 
separate cells ; 164 for sleep, and 39 for work. It is considered 
a perfect model of its kind. A very handsome edifice has 
lately been erected for the confinement of debtors, from the 
design of Mr. Collingwood, an eminent architect of this city, 
which reflects great credit on that gentleman's professional 
talents. The Rev. Mr. Cooper is the present chaplain ; J. P. 
Wilton, Esq. surgeon; and Thos. Cunningham, Esq. gover- 
nor. The last-mentioned gentleman has filled that office ever 
since the year 1792 ; during the whole of which time he has 
discharged the very arduous duties of that situation in such an 
exemplary manner, as to merit the most unqualified appro- 
bation of the magistrates of the county of Gloucester, as well 
as of the country at large. 



THE BANKS. 

The Governor and Company of the Bank of England have 
lately established a Branch Bank in this city. But this mea- 
sure was certainly unnecessary and uncalled for, as there are 
two banks here of great respectability ; both of which have 
withstood the late fiery ordeal with undiminished reputation : 
and, during the whole of the late eventful period up to the 
present time, have, with great humanity and kindness, accom- 
modated their respective friends with pecuniary assistance, 



174) HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

and are, on that account, entitled to the most grateful ac- 
knowledgments of the public — they, therefore, ought to have 
the support of that public. One of them is, with the excep- 
tion of Child's, the oldest private bank in England, having 
been established by James Wood, Esq., the grandfather of 
the present proprietor, in the year 1716. The present James 
Wood, Esq., whose name is of so much celebrity, as to be 
known in almost every part of Great Britain, is, perhaps, pos- 
sessed of more wealth than any commoner in his Majesty's 
dominions.* 



PERMANENT LIBRARY. 

This Institution commenced the 1st January, 1818. The 
members consist of two classes, Proprietors and Subscribers. 
A payment of six guineas, and an annual subscription of 
£1. 5s. constitute the former; the annual subscription of 
£1. 5s. the latter. The President is chosen annually, but 
no person can be eligible two years in succession. The 
President for the present year is Dr. Shute. There is also a 
Treasurer and a Committee, which consists of fifteen propri- 
etors, that are olected annually at the general meeting, five 

* From the Supplement of The Gentleman's Magazine, for 1808. 
— " The Woods are of antiquity more than ordinary, and have been 
known in north Britain upwards of one thousand years. They have 
had the honour of Baronetage thrice conferred upon their represen- 
tatives. One is extinct ; the other two are vested in the persons of 
Sir Francis Wood, of Bowling Hall, Yorkshire, and Sir Mark, of 
Gatton, county of Surrey and Monmouthshire ; besides a fourth 
shortly to be made in the person of James Wood, Esq. Merchant 
and Banker in Gloucester. Sir Mark is, I am informed by him, en- 
titled to bear supporters to his arms, in consequence of Sir A. Wood, 
of X.angs, Fifeshire, having had them granted to him by James the 
First of Scotland. I know that his arms are neither those of the 
Woods of Gloucestershire nor South Wales." 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 175 

of whom may act. The catalogue of the books is printed ; 
the collection is good, though not very large, but is con- 
tinually increasing ; the whole of which is in the custody of 
the Librarian, who sees to the due observance of the regula- 
tions of the institution, and a very excellent code of laws is 
drawn up for the regulation of the library. It is situated in 
the College-Court, adjoining to the premises in the occupa- 
tion of Messrs. Ryder and Tooby. The room, which is 
spacious and elegant, is admirably calculated for the purpose. 



HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 

A Society was established on the 1st January, 1828, deno- 
minated " The Gloucester Horticultural Society." It distri- 
butes prizes of different degrees for the finest productions in 
the various floral tribes, as well as in fruit and culinary articles. 
There are five annual meetings or shows of this Society, 
which are held in the National School-room, at Gloucester; 
the period of these shows is regulated by the seasons. The 
auspicious commencement of this society promises well in the 
departments to which it relates ; the exhibitions are numer- 
ously visited by the neighbouring gentry, as well as by the 
inhabitants of the city. The annual subscription is only seven 
shillings, which entitles the subscriber to introduce a visiter 
at each of the meetings or shows; and any person may, at 
any time, become a member, by paying the year's subscrip- 
tion to the Treasurers. A Committee is appointed to manage 
the affairs of the society, and a new committee is appointed 
every year for that purpose, who are chosen at the fifth 
meeting or show, four of whom are the Treasurers and 
Secretaries. — Messrs. Russell and Skey, are Treasurers ; and 
Benjamin Bonnor, and William Matthews, Esquires, are 
Honorary Secretaries. 



176 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



THE HOTELS, INNS, AND TAVERNS 

Of Gloucester have been long and deservedly held in great 
estimation, not only for the reasonableness of the charges, 
but for the extreme attention and politeness which their 
guests constantly experience. The Bell and King's Head 
hotels stand pre-eminently conspicuous in that respect. 



THE MARKETS, 

Which are universally allowed to be equal, and in some re- 
spects superior, to any in the kingdom, are admirably well 
supplied, and at very reasonable rates. The new market- 
place, for cattle and sheep, is perhaps the most complete in 
Great Britain. It is much more commodious and convenient 
than Smithfield. The plan and arrangements of it do great 
credit to the gentleman who designed them. Mr. Baker, the 
Surveyor, has lately published a plan of it with the following 
dedication: — 

DEDICATION OF THE PLAN OF THE MARKETS. 

To J. Phillpotts, Esq., Barrister at Law, and one of the Alder- 
men of this city, who first suggested the idea of these markets, 
and by whose patriotic and unwearied exertions the same were 
completed, this plan is dedicated by his most obliged humble 
servant. B« BAKER. 



THE INFIRMARY 

Was erected in the year 1755, from a design of the late Luke 
Singleton, Esq. under the auspices of the late Lord Botetourt 
and the Hon. and Rev. Dr. Talbot. It has always been con- 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. ITT 

sidered so well calculated for the purpose for which it was 
intended, that other hospitals (particularly that at Worcester) 
have been since built upon the same plan. The physicians 
and surgeons belonging to this establishment, are gentlemen of 
the greatest eminence in their profession, and the pupils of 
the latter have opportunities of acquiring as much practical 
knowledge as at any hospital in the metropolis. A very im- 
portant addition has lately been made to it, by the erection of 
an edifice, from a design of Mr. Rickman, for the reception 
of convalescents, the expense of which has been defrayed, in 
a great measure, by the voluntary donations of individuals. 
Mrs. Smith, a native of this city, has given no less a sum than 
<£500. for that benevolent purpose. 



LUNATIC ASYLUM. 

This magnificent edifice is situated on the east side of the 
city of Gloucester, from which it is distant about half a mile. 
It stands on an eminence, from whence the views of the sur- 
rounding country are very extensive and picturesque. The 
approach to it is through a pair of handsome iron gates into a 
spacious area. The front of the building, including the wings, 
extends from north to south 250 feet ; the central part of 
which is semicircular. The basement story is built with Bath 
stone, and contains a large kitchen, scullery, wash-house, 
laundry, and all other necessary and convenient offices. 
Above are three lofty stories, with water-closets to each story 
and to every division. All the remaining parts of the edifice 
are of brick, stuccoed with Roman cement, and coloured to 
imitate stone. The hospital is caculated to hold about 120 
patients, all of whom have separate bed-rooms. There are also 

detached apartments for noisy and violent patients. The two 
h2 



178 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

sexes are kept apart, and cannot even see each other. There 
are extensive grounds, inclosed with high walls, for each class, 
where they may have air and exercise in fine weather, and 
large and airy corridors in the building for the same purpose 
at other times. There are also commodious apartments for 
the superintendent, physician, and matron ; together with 
store-rooms and domestic apartments ; also two spacious day- 
rooms for the higher class, two for the second class, and four 
for the third class, or paupers. The establishment consists 
of a chaplain (the Rev. F. T. Bayley), physician (Dr. Shute), 
superintendent or surgeon (Mr. Hitch), matron, housekeeper, 
and numerous domestic servants. There are at present up- 
wards of 80 patients. This grand structure was erected by Mr. 
Collingwood, a very eminent architect of this city, at an 
expence of between 40 and £50,000. ; part of which was 
raised by subscription, part by the county of Gloucester, and 
part by the city, in the following proportions : — 11 -20th s by 
the county of Gloucester, l-20th by the city, and the remain- 
ing 8-20ths by the subscribers. The Asylum was opened for 
the reception of patients, 21st July, 1823. 



MAGDALEN ASYLUM. 

In the year 1821, this excellent institution was established. 
A handsome house and premises, situate in St. Mary's square, 
were purchased for that purpose, which is supported by sub- 
scriptions and donations. A committee of gentlemen, and 
another committee of ladies, are appointed, who meet at the 
Asylum the first Thursday in every month, for superintending 
this institution. There are also appointed three trustees, a 
treasurer, a physician, three surgeons, six chaplains, four 
secretaries, and a matron. His Grace the Duke of Beaufort 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 179 

is patron, and sixteen vice-presidents belong to the institu- 
tion, consisting of the nobility and gentry, who either live in 
the neighbourhood, or are connected with it. It appears, by 
the annual report of this society, that many of those unhappy 
women who have been admitted into this Asylum have given 
evidence of sincere contrition, have been restored to society 
under auspicious circumstances, have continued to keep the 
right path, as far as can be ascertained, and expressed grati- 
tude for the benefits which they have received ; in fact, that 
nearly two out of every three admitted have been permanently 
reclaimed. 



THE NATIONAL SCHOOL, 

The foundation-stone of which was laid on the 6th August, 
1815, by his Grace the Duke of Wellington, who, on that day, 
received the freedom of the city of Gloucester, in a superb 
oak box, lined with gold. It is supported by voluntary dona- 
tions and subscriptions, and conducted on the plan of Dr. 
Bell. The Duke of Wellington is Patron, and the Right 
Rev. the Lord Bishop of the Diocese Vice-President. The 
salary of the master is £63. per annum, and that of the mis- 
tress £40. 



THE GLOUCESTER POOR SCHOOL 

Was opened on the 23d of August, 1813, for the reception 
of 200 boys. It is conducted on the Royal British Mode of 
Tuition. The master's salary is £63. per annum : in conse- 
quence of which he takes no scholars of his own. The go- 
vernment of this school is in the Corporation. 



180 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 



SUNDAY-SCHOOLS. 

The late Robert Raikes, Esq. of this city obtained the 
name of Founder of Sunday- Schools by his unwearied exer- 
tions to render them general throughout the kingdom ; and 
this gentleman lived to see his benevolent efforts crowned 
with success. Every parish in this city has its Sunday- 
School : indeed they are now generally adopted throughout 
the kingdom, and Gloucester has the honour of having origi- 
nated the design. Besides which, every class of dissenters 
in this city, except the Quakers, have their respective Sun- 
day-Schools, the beneficial effects of which are evidently seen 
in the morals of the rising generation. 



THE BLUE-COAT HOSPITAL 

For the maintenance of 20 boys, with diet, lodging, clothing, 
and other necessaries, for the term of three years, after which 
they each receive <£10. to place them out apprentices. 
Some of the most respectable persons in this city and neigh- 
bourhood have received their education at this most admirable 
establishment. It was lately rebuilt by the Corporation of 
this city, who, as trustees under the will of Sir Thomas Rich, 
have expended more than .£5,000. for that purpose. The 
front of it is entirely of Bath stone, ornamented with a rustic 
basement, and coupled pilasters of the Ionic order, which 
support an appropriate entablature, and having wings decorated 
with Venetian windows; the whole of which has really a 
magnificent appearance, and does great credit to the archi- 
tectural abilities of the late Mr. Wheeler. It is built on the 
site of the Roman prsetorium. 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 181 



THE COLLEGE SCHOOL. 

This building was formerly the Abbey Library, but upon 
the foundation of the Chapter, in the time of Henry VIII. it 
was converted into a school, and repaired and made more 
convenient for the purpose, by Elizabeth Wiltshire, widow, 
in 1587. The present very learned master, the Rev. A. B. 
Evans, is justly esteemed for the extent of his classical attain* 
ments, as well as for his intimate acquaintance with most of 
the modern languages. Dr. Phillpotts and many other scho- 
lars of great eminence were educated at this celebrated school. 



THE CRYPT SCHOOL 

Was founded by John Cooke, alderman of Gloucester, from 
whence one scholar is elected every four years, who is sent 
to Pembroke College, where he continues eight years on the 
exhibition, which is now worth £50. per annum, with the 
chance of presentation to the livings of Colnbrook and Ux- 
bridge. 



GAS LIGHTS. 

In the year 1819, a bold adventurer proposed to the citi- 
zens of Gloucester to light the public streets and private 
houses with gas. A prospectus of probable expenditure and 
returns was circulated, in which it was shewn that, when the 
works should be completed, the advantage to subscribers 
would be £18f. per cent, on their advances. To produce 
this effect, it was calculated that not less than 800 private 



182 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

lights, averaging £4?. per annum, would soon be engaged, 
which, with coke and tar, would produce the advantage 
stated. 

In the course of the same year an Act of Parliament was 
obtained (59 Geo. III.), " Enabling the Governor and Guar- 
dians of the Poor of the City of Gloucester to light the 
said city with gas, and to enter into the necessary contracts 
for that purpose." In consequence of which, extensive and 
commodious works, for the making of gas, were erected near 
the Quay, on the western side of the city. 

When the establishment was completed, it was soon found 
to be defective in all its branches. In the course of two 
years the number of private lights was under 25 per cent, 
of the number estimated ,• the public lights were contracted 
for at a price about 70 per cent, under what a sufficient quan- 
tity of gas for their supply could be manufactured ; the gas 
was impure, and the quantity produced inadequate to the 
several engagements. Under these circumstances, the pro- 
prietors had to regret their having embarked in the specu- 
lation, and the public were much disappointed in their expec- 
tations. In this state the proprietors had to choose, whether 
to abandon the concern, or subscribe a further sum of money 
adequate to the reorganization of it ; when, in the month of 
June, 1822, the latter was determined upon, and in the course 
of the same year the proposed alterations were completed. 

The sum expended in the first instance was ,£13,000. ; and 
lastly, for additions and alterations, the further sum of £787. 

On the 1st of January, 1823, the works, in their improved 
state, and under the very judicious management of Mr. 
Waring, began to supply both public and private engagements 
with light ; and to the present moment (nearly seven years) 
not one instance has occurred of the works being deficient in 
a supply of gas perfectly purified. 



THE MUSIC MEETING. 183 

From the satisfaction entertained by the public from its 
improvement, an increase of private lights is derived, to the 
amount of 76 per cent, on the number of lights previously 
supplied, and the company are paying off a large debt which 
untoward circumstances had involved them in. 

As the unfavourable prejudices, which early disappointment 
had created, wear away, the company's interest will improve, 
and, in all probability, will be remunerated to such a degree 
as they may reasonably expect. At present, the returns to 
the company arise from gas, coke, and tar. In process of 
time it may be an object to the company to take advantage of 
some other of the component parts of the coal, namely, 
naptha, ammonia, &c. The purification of the gas is effected 
by means of quick-lime, barely moistened with water ; after 
which, the lime is applied to agricultural purposes ; as is the 
ammonia, a substance well known to be a powerful promoter 
of vegetation, with the aid of quick lime. 

The precincts of the College are excepted out of this Act; 

. but the Dean and Chapter, with a degree of liberality that is 

not often seen in corporate bodies, have the whole of the 

precincts of the Cathedral lighted with gas at their own 

expense. 

TRIENNIAL MUSIC MEETING. 

It is stated in Eaton's History of Worcester, that " This 
musical fete, one of the most respectable and popular of its 
kind in the kingdom, originated with the gentlemen of the 
Worcester Cathedral Choir in the year 1720. It may be 
considered as the parent of those numerous similar institutions 
which have since risen into existence, and been attended with 
such splendid success. Its first celebration took place in 
Worcester Cathedral, Aug. 1722. Similar meetings followed, 



184 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

at Hereford and Gloucester, in the two succeeding years. A 
large share of public approbation soon awakened in its con- 
ductors an increasing spirit of enterprise." But Mr. Lysons, 
in his " History of the Origin and Progress of the Meeting 
of the Three Choirs," asserts that " The origin of this chari- 
table institution is to be traced to the year 1724, at which 
time the members of the three choirs of Gloucester, Worces- 
ter, and Hereford, had for some years held an annual meeting 
at each of the cities in rotation, for the purpose of enjoying 
the pleasures of harmony. It was in that year that Dr. 
Thomas Bisse, Chancellor of Hereford, preached a sermon at 
St. PauPs Cathedral, in which he made a proposal that, at 
these annual meetings, there should be a collection at the 
church-door for charitable purposes ; and, in the year 1726, 
Dr. Bisse preached his first sermon in aid of the charity, at 
Hereford, on the following singular text : — ' I gat me men 
singers and women singers, and the delights of the sons of 
men, as musical instruments, and that of all sorts.' — Eccles. 
c. ii. v. 8. In a note to this sermon, he says, ' Having first 
proposed this charity, with success, at Gloucester, in 1724, 
and recommended it at Worcester in 1725, I thought myself 
obliged to promote it, in this way, in the church and diocese 
to which I belong.' " 

In the year 1734, performers of the first musical celebrity 
were engaged from the metropolis. About this period the 
institution assumed its present form. The money taken at 
the church-doors was devoted to the benevolent purpose of 
relieving the necessitous widows and orphans of clergy within 
the three dioceses of Worcester, Hereford, and Gloucester. 

The nobility, gentry, and clergy of the respective counties, 
now came forward to its support in a very liberal manner ; 
and, under the designation of the " Meeting of the Three 
Choirs," in the year 1754, its alternate annual meetings were 



THE MUSIC MEETING. 185 

placed under the superintendance of two stewards, the one 
appointed from among the nobility, the other from the clergy, 
assisted by a conductor of the highest professional eminence. 

In the year 1788, this annual festival was honoured by the 
presence, and its funds assisted by the bounty, of our late 
revered Sovereign, who, after the performance of the Messiah 
on the Friday morning, put £200. in the plate. Since that 
period the efforts of its conductors have been zealously di- 
rected to procure for it the support of the highest patronage 
and the aid of the most distinguished musical talent. Its 
growing popularity and usefulness sufficiently attest the ability 
with which it has been conducted, and the interest which is 
felt in its benevolent object. 

In the year 1798, the number of stewards was increased 
from two to six (three clergymen and three laymen). The 
amount of the money raised from the sale of tickets has sel- 
dom been found sufficient to pay the expences incurred ,• in 
consequence of which, the stewards have personally been 
considerably out of pocket ; but, by increasing their number, 
it is not so severely felt as formerly. The collection at the 
first meeting, in 1724, was, at 2s. 6d. a ticket, only £31. 

In the year 1752, the price of the tickets of admission was 
raised from 2s. 6d. to 3s. ; in 1758, it was raised from 3s. to 
5s. ; in 1807, it was again raised from 5s. to Is. 6d. ; and is 
now increased to 10s. 

In the year 1811, the meeting at Gloucester was uncom- 
monly well attended : nearly 1,700 persons were present at 
the Messiah ; and in the evening of the same day, at the 
Booth-Hall, there were considerably more than 1,000 per- 
sons. It was Madame Catalani's first appearance here. 

Our justly-celebrated organist, Mr. Mutlow, has been the 
conductor ever since the year 1790, with much credit to him- 
self and advantage to this benevolent institution, 



186 



HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



GLOUCESTER SALINE CHALYBEATE SPA. 



The grand source of attraction, which has given quite a 
new feature to the city, and has occasioned a prodigious influx 
of respectable inhabitants here, is the justly-celebrated Glou- 
cester Spa, situate about one-third of a mile from the Cross, 
on the south-east of the city, where some valuable springs 
were accidentally discovered, in the year 1814, by sinking a 
well, the water of which was then analysed by Mr. Accum, 
and it appears by the analysis that the impregnations on which 
the virtues of saline chalybeate waters depend, are more 
abundant in the Gloucester Spa water, than in any other 
hitherto observed in this country.* Its medicinal effects 



* The following table exhibits the strength of the water, as analysed 
by Mr. Accum, together with that of Cheltenham and Leamington : 





GLOUCESTER. 


CHELTENHAM. 


LEAMINGTON. 




Pint. 


Gallon. 


Pint. 


Gallon. 


Pint. 


Gallon. 




Grains. 


Grains. 


Grains. 


Grains. 


Grains. 


Grains 


Sulphate of Soda 


18.25 


146.00 


22.7 


181.6 


20 00000 


160.00 


Sulphate of Magnesia. . 


13.75 


110.00 


6.0 


48.0 






Muriate of Soda 


38.50 


308.00 


41.3 


330.4 


53.75000 ' 


' 430.00 


Muriate of Magnesia.. 


4.75 


38.00 






6.25000 


50.00 


Muriate of Lime 


3.50 


28.00 










Sulphate of Lime 


16.00 


128.00 


"2.5' 


20.6 


16.87500 ' 


' 135,00 


Carbonate of Iron .... 


2.00 


16.00 


1.5 


12.0 


0.9375 


0.75 


GASEOUS CONTENTS IN 


96.75 


774.00 


74.0 


592.0 




CUBIC INCH. 
















Pint. 


Gallon. 


Pint. 


Gallon. 






Carbonic Acid Gas. . . . 


16.00 


128.00 


1.50875 


12.07 


0.7500 




Atmospheric Air 


9.00 


72.00 


0.15125 


1.21 






Oxygen Gas 






0.38315 


4.03 







The Cheltenham water to which we refer is Thomson's strong 
chalybeate saline water, marked No. 1. The- analysis was some 
time since performed by Messrs. Brande and Parke. That of 
Leamington was made by Dr. Middleton. 



THE SPA. 187 

have fully confirmed what the chemical analysis led us to 
expect. It has been administered with the most salutary 
effects in a great variety of diseases, which had resisted the 
influence of other agents. It is considered as generally sti- 
mulant, useful in nephritic and calculous disorders, gastric, 
or acidulous dyspepsia, nausea, removal of biliary obstruc- 
tions, jaundice, excess of biliary secretions, diseases of debility, 
uterine derangement, chlorosis, scorbutic affections, incipient 
pulmonic cases, &c. A commodious and extensive boarding 
house, and a spacious billiard-room, for the reception and 
amusement of visiters, have been erected, and a great many 
very elegant lodging-houses have also been built. Hot and 
cold baths, on the most improved construction, have been 
recently made, and are in great request ; shrubberies and rides 
are annexed. A vast number of persons, irom various parts 
of the United Kingdom, have, by the use of these invaluable 
waters, been cured of the most obstinate complaints, after 
having had recourse to every other means without success. The 
advantage of these springs to those who reside in Gloucester 
must be very great, when we consider the beauty and conve- 
nience of the situation, the salubrity of the air, and the ex- 
tensive and picturesque views with which it abounds; together 
with the pleasant habitations which have been erected, and 
the delightful walks and rides which have been recently made, 
ornamented with trees and foreign shrubs of the most valuable 
kinds, and which will no doubt not only amply repay the 
public-spirited proprietors of this most enchanted spot, but 
become a place of residence to many individuals, who, while 
they enjoy the benefit of the waters and the pleasures of the 
country, can at the same time avail themselves of the medical 
advice of gentlemen of the greatest eminence, and the society 
and accommodations afforded by the immediate vicinity of a 
large city. 



188 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Beaufort-Buildings — consist of a row of substantial and 
remarkably well-built houses, extending from east to west, 
and immediately facing the principal walk of the Spa, having 
a lawn ornamented with shrubs in the front. The situation 
of these elegant residences is very desirable, as they command 
beautiful, extensive, and highly picturesque views of the dis- 
tant hills and of the surrounding country. The proprietors 
of the Spa will never suffer the ground opposite to be en- 
croached upon ; the prospect, therefore, cannot at any time 
be intercepted. This circumstance is very important, espe- 
cially in a place like the Spa, where the buildings are increasing 
with such rapidity. It is no small recommendation to Beau- 
fort-Buildings that, like all the others in the neighbourhood, 
they are inhabited by most respectable families. 

Montpelier- Place. — On the north side of the approach to , 
the Spa, a row of elegant buildings has lately been erected by 
Mr. James Pollard, of this city, called Montpelier-Place. 
These beautiful edifices being ornamented with windows of 
stained glass, and having handsome verandas and highly-de- 
corated fronts, very much attract the notice of strangers. A 
neat Church in the Grecian style of architecture, from a 
design of Mr. Bickman, has recently been built there. A 
spacious and elegant mansion, from a design of Mr. Smirke, 
has lately been erected near the Spa, by John Phillpotts, Esq. ; 
also the Spa Villas, and a very handsome and commodious 
edifice called Sherborne House, by John Chadborn, Esq. 

Mr. Hicks has erected several handsome edifices at the 
Spa, particularly Waterloo-House, the situation of which is 
the most beautiful that can be imagined, and, with the gardens 
and pleasure grounds, adds very much to the attractions of 
that delightful spot, which is now become a place of fashion- 



THE SPA. 189 

able resort, and under the very judicious and able manage- 
ment of Mr.Wathen, the present tenant, will no doubt obtain, 
if possible, still greater celebrity. Mr. Wathen intends, every 
year, during the summer season, to have balls and public 
breakfasts, and a good band of music is engaged ; we may 
therefore anticipate a full attendance of the beau monde. 

Brunswick- Square. — Adjoining to the Spa is a spacious 
square of new and elegant mansions, called Brunswick- Square. 
The area, which is very extensive, consists of a beautiful 
lawn and gravel walks, interspersed with valuable shrubs and 
ornamental trees of various descriptions, very judiciously 
disposed, and surrounded with iron palisades. The houses 
are handsome, particularly those on the west side of the square 
which are really magnificent, presenting a widely-extended 
front with rusticated basement, and decorated with Grecian 
pilasters and architraves. All these houses, like those at the 
Spa, are covered with Roman cement, and make a very 
splendid appearance. They are inhabited by families of great 
respectability ; the situation is warm and protected : it is 
sheltered on the north and north-east by the city, and this is 
a circumstance greatly in its favour, particularly as far as 
relates to invalids and to persons who have been accustomed 
to reside in warm climates ; whilst the constant flow of the 
majestic Severn, with its tides, not only brings a perpetual 
current of fresh and wholesome air constantly through it, but 
serves to drain the surrounding lands and to remove every 
offensive accumulation. The prodigious increase of the in- 
habitants of the Spa may be accounted for, independent of 
the superior efficacy of the mineral waters, from the circum- 
stance of the land there being extra-parochial, in consequence 
of which the rates are very trifling compared with other 
places. 



190 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

It must be obvious to every individual who feels an interest 
in the trade and prosperity of this city, that the Spa has 
already been the means of annually introducing many families 
of the greatest respectability as permanent and more occa- 
sional residents here. And in proportion as the attractions 
and accommodations increase," we may reasonably expect an 
augmentation of visiters. Upon these grounds, and looking 
at the trifling sacrifice which is required from each individual, 
we feel assured that our fellow-citizens will, one and all, come 
forward, and in seconding the views of the proprietors, render 
an essential service to themselves. And we hope and trust 
that those persons who do not partake of the waters, but who 
are in the habit of frequenting these charming walks and rides 
will become subscribers to them. 



IMPROVEMENTS OF THE CITY. 

In the year 1821, (2d Geo. IV.) an Act was obtained for 
establishing a proper place for holding markets and fairs, for 
the sale of live stock in the city of Gloucester, and for watch- 
ing and otherwise improving the said city ; by virtue of which 
Act, the commodious market-places were constructed, which 
have been before described. 

Among other very salutary provisions contained in this 
Act, it is stated that a special vestry shall be held annually in 
each parish, for the purpose of electing three commissioners, 
who, with the mayor and aldermen of the city for the time 
being, shall be commissioners for ordering, directing, and 
regulating all public improvements within the said city ; and 
for carrying the same into effect, the mayor and one or more 
of the aldermen shall, by warrant under their hands and seals, 



IMPROVEMENTS OF THE CITY. 191 

authorise and require the churchwardens and overseers of the 
poor of the several parishes within the said city, to assess, 
collect, levy, and receive the sums that shall be certified to 
them by the said commissioners to be necessary to be raised 
for that purpose, provided that nothing shall authorise the 
commissioners in any one year to levy and raise more than 
the sum of £500. 

Great improvements have already been made by the money 
so raised in taking down projections and widening avenues in 
different parts of the city, and many more are in contempla- 
tion : we may, therefore, expect to see Gloucester eventually 
become one of the handsomest cities in the kingdom. 

The road from London and Cheltenham enters Gloucester 
at its north-east extremity. Along this road, coming into 
the city, are passed a considerable number of houses of every 
size and description, but mostly of modern erection : the best 
of them are covered with Roman cement, to imitate stone, 
and several deserve the designation of elegant and substantial 
mansions ; those lately erected by Mr. White are pre-emi- 
nently conspicuous. A very handsome row of houses, with 
Bath stone fronts, is built on the east side of this road, called 
Wellington-parade, and are all inhabited by families of great 
respectability. Two new streets have recently been made on 
the north side of the road, and which are named Albion-street 
and Oxford-street : in the latter the houses are all uniform, 
and being Roman cemented, make a very elegant appearance. 
The whole of this street, as well as the houses on the south 
side of it, are built on land belonging to John Bowyer, Esq. 

Few gentlemen can boast of a more desirable mansion 
than one lately erected by John Michael Saunders, Esq. 
situate some small distance on the south side of this road. 
The dwelling-house stands on a gentle eminence, and com- 
mands most extensive and beautiful views of the surrounding 



192 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

country. The gardens, shrubberies, and pleasure-grounds, 
are not only laid out with much judgment, but are kept in 
the highest order, and do great credit to the taste of the very 
liberal owner of that most delightful residence. The suburbs 
on this road extend about half a mile, and may be described 
as a highly respectable and genteel neighbourhood. 

The approach from Bristol on the south-west side of the 
city has, within a few years, been prodigiously improved by 
the erection of a very handsome row of elegant houses, called 
Norfolk-buildings, and by one of the principal entrances to 
our far-famed and justly -celebrated Spa. Ail the houses in 
this neighbourhood must soon become very valuable from 
their contiguity to the basin of the canal, and will form very 
desirable residences for merchants and other persons who may 
have business to transact there. The situation is remarkably 
salubrious, and the views very extensive and highly pictu- 
resque. 

One of the greatest improvements that has recently 
taken place in this city, is the new street called Worcester- 
street. The idea of making this grand entrance into Glou- 
cester from the north of England, originated with John 
Phillpotts, Esq. who, after combating with many difficulties 
and conflicting interests, had the satisfaction of seeing his 
efforts crowned with success ; but which never could have 
been accomplished had he not introduced a clause in the Act 
of Parliament passed in the 58th year of the reign of his late 
Majesty, for repairing the roads leading from the city of Glou- 
cester towards Cheltenham and Tewkesbury. 

Hare-lane, Here-lone, i. e. Army-lane, was a road which 
passed in an angular direction to Kingsholm, and was the line 
of communication between the Roman station and the resi- 
dence of the civil authorities, the first British city, as pre- 
sumed. Back Hare-lane (now called Park-street) runs 



KINGSHOLM. 193 

parallel with its fellow street of the same name. Both lead 
to the Roman burying-place at Kingsholm. On the west 
side of Park-street, but separated therefrom by a lofty wall, 
is a beautiful park, well stocked with deer, and ornamented 
with forest trees, some of which are of prodigious magnitude ; 
on the south side of which is the elegant mansion of Mrs. 
Pitt, the daughter of the late John Pitt, Esq. one of the 
representatives in Parliament for this city. 

Some idea may be formed of the rapid increase of buildings 
in this city and its environs, when it appears that near 400 
houses have been erected within the last three years, upon 
land sold by the writer of this article for that purpose, all of 
which are inhabited. 

It certainly must be admitted by every unprejudiced and 
impartial person, that the corporation have made prodigious 
exertions for improving the city. They have done more in 
this respect during the last forty years, than their predeces- 
sors did for nearly four centuries. Witness the markets in 
the East, South, and Northgate-streets, the erection of St. 
Bartholomew's and the Blue Coat Hospitals, the building of 
the Bridge which connects the Westgate-street with the 
Quay, &c. &c. 



KINGSHOLM 

Lies about a quarter of a mile from the city, on the Tewkes- 
bury road, and is a place of considerable importance with 
the historian and antiquary. 

In 1815, as some workmen were employed in digging a 
cellar at Mr. Sims' s, at Kingsholm, they discovered, at about 
six feet below the surface of the earth, a stone coffin of large 
dimensions, and weighing about three tons. On removing 



194 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

the lid (ten inches in thickness), they found inclosed therein 
a leaden coffin, not soldered, but hammered into its present 
form, containing a complete skeleton, with the arms folded 
across the breast, and the head placed towards the east ; on 
examining the skull, it appeared that a violent blow had been 
given to the deceased with the point of a spear or other 
sharp instrument, which had pierced through the oxfrontis, 
or forehead, and which probably occasioned his death. Many 
coffins of the same kind, as well as others, composed of rough 
stones set edgeway at the sides, and covered with one or 
more flat stones (the kistvaen, or early altar monument of the 
British), more than 1000 skeletons, also urns filled with 
ashes (paterce), spears, daggers, battle-axes, and other an- 
cient military weapons, gold rings, Roman steelyards, or 
balances, great abundance of gold, silver, and copper coins, 
of the latter empire, and various other antiques, have, within 
a few years been excavated there. It is certain that the 
Romans used stone coffins for interment, as well as for ceno- 
taphs — such coffins contained skeletons firm and entire, and 
laid in lime — they also buried in lead. We find two kinds 
of burial mentioned in the Theodosian Code — one, the 
burying of whole bodies in coffins : the other, the burying 
the bones and ashes in urns. The Romans, in Britain, 
buried their warriors near the via strata^ or military way, to 
put their bodies out of danger of insult ; and to prevent the 
scattering of their ashes, the whole army cast on them grassy 
turfs, which is the origin of many of the tumuli still found 
among us. As it was the greatest dishonour to lie unburied, 
it was most glorious to be covered with a large tumulus, 
whicK was probably one reason for the Romans burying their 
Generals near public ways, that passengers might be continu- 
ally adding to the heap, which it was judged a work of piety 
to do. The ancient Saxons laid the bodies of those who 



KINGSHOLM. 195 

were slain in the field on the surface of the ground, and 
covered them with clods of earth, which were raised in pro- 
portion to their dignity ; they also used stone coffins as early 
as the year 695, and they may be traced from the 9th cen- 
tury to the reign of Henry III. and in some cases to that of 
Henry VIII. The Danes buried the bodies with the faces 
downwards, and the head towards the east, and enclosed 
between flat stones set on edge — a distinction, perhaps, of 
Danes from Christians. 

There is no doubt of Kingsholm having been a Roman 
station of considerable importance. It is well known that 
Antonine placed his colony, which was called Colonia Gle- 
vum, at Gloucester, and that the Claudian Legion was 
quartered there ; from which circumstance it obtained the 
Latin appellation Claudiocestria ; and, it is generally under- 
stood, that a principal part of the city was situate at Kings- 
holm at that time. 

Kingesham, or Kingsholm-street, occurs in ancient records 
(1213). Kingsholm, therefore, now altered in its mode of 
spelling, may mean nothing more than the King's Homestead. 
A traditionary account prevails, that in the Kingsholm Close 
once stood the palace of a Saxon king. Several of the old 
inhabitants remember the remains of this building. When 
Gloucester was besieged by Charles I. there was a street 
extending from the city to Kingsholm, but which was, by 
order of Massey, the governor, burnt down. — [The writer of 
this article has in his possession the title deeds of an estate 
at Kingsholm, wherein this circumstance is mentioned.] — 
It appears by a presentment of the grand inquest for the body 
of the county of the city of Gloucester, delivered to the 
Judges of the Assizes, holden for the city of Gloucester, in 
the year 1646, and by them presented to the Honourable the 
Parliament of England, [a copy of which is also in posses- 



196 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

sion of the writer] that the value of the houses destroyed at 
Kingsholm during the siege (the exact valuation of each 
house, with the names of the respective proprietors being 
therein separately specified), amounted to the sum of £2310. 
This ancient document expresses, that the purpose for which 
this grant was sought, was to remunerate the parties for losses 
sustained in consequence of measures of defence necessarily 
adopted " for the securing of the city, and the garrison there- 
in kept by the Parliament, against the enemy of our religion 
and liberties." Dorney, the Town Clerk, in his speech 
addressed to the Corporation of the city of Gloucester, Oct. 
5th, 1646, on the election of Lawrence Singleton, Esq. to 
the office of Mayor, alludes to this circumstance in the fol- 
lowing terms : " Some charge hath been made since these 
troubles, by the burning of the suburbs: so that it is as 
a garment without skirts which we were willing to part withal, 
lest our enemies should sit upon them" 



ANTIQUITIES. 

At the Kingsholm, near this city, (which was a burying 
place of the Romans) a great many curious remains of anti- 
quity have at different times been found, particularly stone 
and leaden coffins, Roman legionary and other swords, parts 
of helmets, breast-plates, shields, heads of spears and arrows, 
cuirasses, a statera or Roman steel-yard of brass, glass beads, 
rings, fibulae, lachrymatories, lamps, urns, and various other 
articles of Roman pottery : also coins, particularly of Tiberius, 
Nero, Claudius, and the early Emperors. 

A short time since, a bone of prodigious size, partly in a 
state of decomposition, measuring 22 inches in circumference, 
supposed to be the one of the ossa innominata, or part of the 



ANTIQUITIES. 197 

pelvis of an elephant, was found there, in a bed of gravel, 
several feet below the surface of the earth, and which, in all 
probability, must have been deposited there nearly 1400 
years,* as the Romans finally departed from Britain in the 
year of our Lord 448. This bone is in the possession of the 
writer of this article. 

In 1634, many bones of elephants were found in the neigh- 
bourhood of Westbury, in this county, and were collected by 
order of Charles I. A large bone of an elephant is still 
preserved in the parish church of Westbury. In many other 
places, bones of the same kind have been found. In the year 
1730, in digging the great sewer in Pali-Mall, London, at the 
depth of 28 feet, in a bed of sand, were found several very 
large bones, which were supposed to be the remains of an 
elephant, particularly the accetabulum, the scapula, and se- 
reral of the vertebras > w T ith the bones of the two fore legs 
and feet. About 18 years before, similar bones had been dug 
up in St. James's Square, and also some in St. James's Place, 
all at the same depth.f 

The Grecians employed elephants in their wars, particu- 
larly Alexander the Great, when he defeated Darius at the 
battle of Arbella, A.C. 230.J Elephants were first intro- 
duced into Italy with the armies of Pyrrhus. In the first 
battle with the Romans, soon after his entrance into Teren- 



* It is not impossible, that the bone in question might have be- 
longed to an antediluvian animal. The bones of the mammoth 
have been excavated in the woods of America. A fossil crocodile 
has been discovered at Bath, and another fine specimen is now in 
the possession of the Rev. Peter Hawker, of Woodchester, which 
was found at Kingsholm a few years since. 

f Gent. Mag. 1758, p. 166. 

\ Philostratus vita Apolonii, lib. 1. cap. 6. — Curtius, lib. 8.«— 
Polybius, lib. 5. 



198 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

turn, A.C. 286, he obtained his victory through his elephants, 
whose bulk and uncommon appearance astonished the Ro- 
man s. Dion informs us, that Claudius brought elephants 
into Britain, A.D. 43. 

Latety, the workmen employed by Messrs. Sims, of Kings- 
holm, in opening a fresh pit of gravel there, discovered, at 
about five feet below the surface of the earth, the tooth of 
an elephant, partly fossilized, but still retaining a considera- 
ble proportion of the enamel. It measures nineteen inches in 
circumference, weighs 5lbs. and is in a perfect state of pre- 
servation. The tooth is flat, and ribbed transversely on its 
surface. This curious relic of an antediluvian world, is in 
the possession of Benjamin Bonner, Esq. of Gloucester. 

In the year 1824, a W asset Bowl was discovered at the 
Haw. The Wastel or Wassel, (from the Saxon pcephcel, i. e. 
your health,") was a large bowl, wherein the Saxons, at their 
entertainments, drank a health to one another, in the phrase 
of "wass-keal;" and the Wastel-Bowl was placed at the 
upper end of the table, in religious houses, filled with a liquor 
made of apples, sugar, and ale, for the use of the Abbot, who 
began the health, or pocolum charitatis, to strangers, or to his 
fraternity. Hence, cakes, and fine white bread, which were 
usually soaked in the Wastel Bowl, seem plainly to be meant 
by the word Vastelhim, in the lives of the Abbots of St. 
Albans, by Matthew Paris, which saith " Abbas solus prande* 
bat supremusin refectorio habens Vastellum" 

The centre compartment of this Bowl or Basin contains a 
representation of a man dying, with two figures (ParcceJ 
before him, one holding a pair of shears, the other a lock of 
hair or web ; from the inscription it would appear to be the 
former ; in that case it may probably relate to some story 



ANTIQUITIES. 199 

told upon another bowl not yet discovered. Inscription : 

" SCILLA . METENS . CRINEM . MERCATUR . CRIMINE." 

1. Ganimede taken by the eagle of Jupiter. Inscription: 

" ARMIGER . ECCE . JOVIS . GANIMEDEM .SUSTULIS . ALIS." 

2. Ganimede handing the cup to Jupiter and Juno. In- 
scription : PORRIGAT. UT . SCIATOS . DIS . CONVIVATIBUS . APTO." 

3. Orpheus soliciting Pluto and Proserpine for the libera* 
tion of his Euridice. Inscription : " legibus . inferni . 

M0TIS . PROSERPINA . REDDI." 

4. The separation of Orpheus and Euridice on his look- 
ing backwards. Inscription : " euridicem . jussit . sedeam . 

MORS . ATRA . REDUXIT." 

5. Ceres with a bushel, speaking to a figure of a man who 
is in the act of going forward with a bag over his shoulder. 
Inscription : " mater . larga . ceris . miserata . fame . pe- 

REUNTES." 

6. Triptolemus seated on a dragon, and scattering grains 
of corn. Inscription : " triptolemi . manibus . commissit . 

SEMINIS . USUS." 

All the figures on the bowl are engraved : and although 
the art of engraving on plates and blocks of wood, so as to 
afford prints or impressions, was not known till after the 
invention of painting in oil, having its rise no earlier than 
the middle of the 15th century, yet the ancients practised 
engraving on precious stones, crystals, &c. with very good 
success. 

It is difficult to account for the bowl being found in that 
situation. The Haw belonged formerly to the Priory of 
Deerhurst, as subject to the Abbey of St. Dennis, in Paris, 
and afterwards to the Abbey of Tewkesbury. It is possible 
that, at the dissolution of alien priories, in the reign of 
Henry V. or at the general suppression, in 1544, they might 
have been thrown into the river for the purpose of conceal- 



200 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

ment, and, being buried in the sands, could not afterwards 
be found. 

All the letters are Roman capitals, with the exception of 
the Saxon M. Our erudite friend, the Rev. T. D. Fos- 
broke, who is certainly a great authority in these matters, 
states, that " in the 9th and 10th, and beginning of the 11th 
century, many manuscripts were written in England in cha- 
racters partly Roman, partly Lombardick, and partly Sax- 
on, and that Saxon characters were entirely disused in the 
beginning of the 12th century;" but we observe that the 
legends on the English coins, from the time of the Conquest 
to that of Mary, previous to her marriage with Philip, in- 
clusive, are all Saxon. The characters of the dresses have 
nothing Roman about them, but resemble those engraved in 
a book in our possession, entitled " The Fyrst Bohe of the 
Introduction of Knowledge, made by Andrew Borde, of Phi- 
sicke Doctor. Dedicated to the Right Honourable and 
Gracious Lady Mary, daughter of our Soverayne Lord 
Kyng Henry the Eyght." If we may venture to hazard a 
conjecture as to the date of this piece of antiquity, we 
should therefore assign it to the reigns of Henry VII. or 
VIII. 

About the same time, another Basin or Wastel Bowl, of 
similar form and workmanship to the one last mentioned, was 
found by the workmen employed in making the coffer-dam at 
the Haw Bridge. It is composed of a mixture of gold and 
copper, measuring 10 J inches across the top, 2 inches in 
depth, and weighing 24 ounces. At the bottom, within a 
circle, is a representation of Cadmus, in a sitting posture, 
with a book before him, and a pen in his hand. The follow- 
ing is the inscription: " cadmvs. grecorvm. scrvtator, 

GRAM AT A . PRIMVM." 



ANTIQUITIES. 201 

The remaining part of the basin is divided into six com- 
partments, in which are represented the following subjects : 

1. The birth of Hercules. Inscription: "maximvs. alc- 

MENA. LICET. INDIGNANTE . NOVERCA." 

2. Hercules lying in a cradle, in the act of grasping a 
serpent. Inscription: "editvs. alcides. inmissos. stran- 

GVLAT. ANGVES." 

3. Hercules subduing the Lernean Hydra. Inscription : 

" ALCIDES. VIGILEM. SOPIVIT. CLAVE. DRACONEM." 

4. Hercules attacking the Monster Geryon. Inscription : 

" GEREONVS . POMPAI. RAPIT. ET . COMBVSSERAT . IDRAM." 

5. Hercules fighting with Cacus. Inscription: " cacvs . 

CESSIT . EI . SVCCVMBIT . IANITOR . ORCI." 

6. Hercules sitting on a burning pile, surrounded with 
flames. Inscription: "incendebat. evm. meretrix. dei- 

DAMRA. VIVVM." 

This bowl is in the possession of Mr. James Billinger, 
Haw Passage. 

On the 21st May, 1825, as some workmen were employed 
in making an excavation to enlarge the vaults of Messrs. 
Johnson, of this city, wine-merchants, they discovered, about 
seven feet below the,, surface of the earth, a very curious 
Roman tesselated pavement, in a perfect state of preservation, 
running in a direction from north to south, but to what 
extent has not yet been ascertained. The colours are white 
and blueish grey. The tesserae are about one inch in length 
and three-quarters of an inch in breadth. The cement on 
which the pavement is laid is several inches in thickness, and 
appears to be composed of sand, pounded brick, and lime, 
forming together a very hard substance. The white tesserae 
are of a hard calcareous stone, and bear a good polish, and 
the grey are of a hard argillaceous kind of stone, found in 



202 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

many parts of Gloucestershire, and called blue lyas. Tesse- 
lated pavements have at different times been discovered in 
the four quarters of the city, and this additional evidence was 
by no means necessary to indicate the site of ancient Glevum. 

Several years ago a tesselated pavement was discovered in 
the cellar belonging to the Master's house of Crypt School ;* 
and another pavement of a similar description was found in a 
house adjoining the Ram Inn. In the Xorthgate-street, when 
improvements were making in the house of the late Thomas 
Mee, Esq. formerly called the Black Spread Eagle, and now 
occupied by Mr. Wm. Holtham, a tesselated pavement was 
dug up, formed of dies in the usual way, but destroyed by 
the ignorance of the workmen. The most complete disco- 
very, however, was made on the 26th of July, 1806, as the 
workmen were employed in digging the foundation for the 
New Blue Coat Hospital, in this city.f They discovered, 
about six feet below the surface of the earth, the remains of 
a very curious tesselated Roman pavement, running in a 
parallel direction with the street, and extending from east to 
west 30 feet, and from north to south 20 feet. On the south 
side there was a circular excavation, about two feet diameter, 
which, from the remains of ashes still there, and the burnt 
bricks, had evidently been used for a hearth or fire-place. 
From this a communication had been made in several direc- 
tions, by earthenware pipes, apparently intended to convey 
heat, under the pavement, to different parts of the building. 
The pavement (which unfortunately was not preserved 

* This spot, according to Kip's plans, was the residence of the 
Duo Legati ; and the Forum, or Capitol, was on the site of the 
Tolsey. 

f The Pr<Etorium is presumed to have been the site of this 
Hospital, 



ANTIQUITIES. 203 

entire) was divided into compartments, enriched with a great 
variety of scrolls, frets, and other architectural ornaments, 
having a wreathed or braided border, together with different 
figures offish. The colours of the tesserae were white, red, 
blueish grey, and pale and dark brown, the sizes varying 
from one-half to three-quarters of an inch, the shapes accom- 
modated to the form of the animals represented. They were 
laid in a bed of Roman cement, about one inch thick, appa- 
rently composed of sand, pulverised brick, and lime, forming 
together a very hard substance. The pavement seemed to 
extend much farther to the west, and is still concealed under 
the adjoining house, then belonging to Sir Thomas Crawley 
Boevey, Bart, and now in the occupation of Mr. William 
Hewlett, cabinet-maker. It is to be lamented, that so valu- 
able and perfect a specimen was not preserved entire. The 
loss, however, is somewhat compensated by a correct draw- 
ing and engraving made by Mr. Thos. Tovey, an impression 
of which is now in the possession of the writer of this article. 
A considerable quantity of the tesserae collected by the late 
Mr. John M'Laren, nurseryman, and put together at some 
expense, now forms the floor of a small room at the Nursery, 
near the Spa. 

As the foundations for the New Church erected in Saint 
Mary's square, in this city, were being dug out, the workmen 
came to a part of a beautiful tesselated pavement, on the 
north side, about five feet below the surface, extending from 
east to west 16 feet 6 inches, and from north to south 7 feet 
6 inches. This pavement was also divided into compart- 
ments, enriched with a variety of scrolls, frets, and other 
ornaments, having a wreathed border inclosing figures of fish, 
and surrounded by a guilloche. The colours of the tesserae 
are white, red, and blueish grey ; the sizes varying from one- 



204 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

half to three-quarters of an inch, some triangular, and of 
various other shapes. They were laid in a bed of cement, 
composed of sand, pulverized brick, and lime ; the interstices 
are filled up with cement, so hard that it is extremely difficult 
to break it. The white tesserae appear to be of a hard cal- 
careous stone, and bear a good polish. The red are of a fine 
sort of brick ; the blueish grey are of the hard argillaceous 
kind called blue lyas. As this is the largest pavement, it was 
probably the floor of the Triclinium, or eating-hall. Mr. Jas. 
Cook, the architect employed in building the Church, endea- 
voured to have the whole of the pavement taken up, in order 
that so fine a specimen (which has probably existed for 
upwards of seventeen centuries) should have been preserved 
entire, but it was found impossible. A very accurate draw- 
ing, however, has been made of the pavement, by Mr. Cooke, 
a copy of which was presented to the Antiquarian Society. 

It has not been discovered how far this pavement extends, 
but it appears that the walls of the Old Church of St. Mary 
de Lode are built upon it, and that it has been considerably 
depressed with their weight. 

A tesselated pavement has also been found, at a small 
distance from the preceding one, composed of tesserae of blue 
and white stones, and varying from one and a half to two 
inches in diameter. This was evidently the floor of an infe- 
rior apartment, as the interstices between the tesserae are 
wider, and the workmanship less elaborate than the other. 
A fine specimen of the tesselated pavement, also a brick-tile 
16 inches square and 1^ thick, used in the roof of the build- 
ing, likewise the two snail-shells mentioned below, have been 
carefully preserved. 

On the south side of the Church, another pavement has 



ANTIQUITIES, 205 

been discovered, with a fire-place, and underneath a flue 
composed of brick tiles, eight by seven inches, and one and a 
half inches thick, for the purpose of conveying heated air. 
This was evidently a Laconicum., or sweating-room, adjoining 
to which was, in all probability, an Apodyterium, or dressing- 
room. There are several other pavements belonging to 
various apartments, which are separated from each other by 
partitions. It is a very singular circumstance, that in one of 
the flues two snail-shells were found, in a perfect state of 
preservation. 

The discovery of these pavements, in the four quarters of 
the city, ascertains, beyond a doubt, a fact that has been the 
subject of much dispute among Antiquaries, namely, that 
Glevum stood on the present site of Gloucester. 

In the year 1827, as the workmen were employed in dig- 
ging out foundations for some houses that were erected in a 
field belonging to Mr. Roberts, adjoining the London-road, 
near this city, a large quantity of human bones, also a brass 
handle and part of the blade of a Roman surgical instrument, 
exactly resembling the bistoury of the present day, together 
with the remains of seven Roman urns, tiles, and various 
other articles of pottery, were discovered, about four feet 
below the surface of the earth. One of these urns was so 
perfect, not falling into pieces as is generally the case when 
exposed to the air, that it has been preserved, and exhibits a 
beautiful specimen of the mode of Roman burial, and the 
exquisite attention to form, in the elegant shape of the urn. 
Some Roman coins were also found, particularly a copper 
coin of Nerva, of the largest size, in the finest state of pre- 
servation, and most beautifully executed. On the obverse 
side, the head of the Emperor appears in alto-relievo, with 



206 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

the following inscription : — " Imp. Nerva, Caes. Aug. P.M. 
T.R.P. Cos. in. P.P." On the reverse are represented a 
team of horses, with a carriage in the back ground; the 
inscription, " Vehiculatione Italiae remissa." By which we 
learn (what no historian relates) that the Roman Emperors 
commanded all the carriages of the country, that Nerva 
remitted this burthen, and that the grievance was so heavy 
that coins were stamped in remembrance of this Emperor's 
goodness, who eased them of it. 

These curious remains have been preserved, and are now 
in the possession of H. I. Shrapnell, Esq. of the Spa, near 
this city. 

About three years since, a curious monument was disco- 
vered in the adjoining field, on which was carved a represen- 
tation of an ancient warrior on horseback, with a legionary 
Roman sword by his side, and a spear in his hand, in the act 
of striking at a foe, who lay prostrate on the ground, and who 
was defending himself with a sword of a different kind. On 
the lower part of the monument was the following inscrip- 
tion : — " Rufus* sita Eques Cho Vi Tracum Ann XL Slip 
XXII. HeredesExs Test E Curave H. S. E." 

Some time afterwards, another monument was discovered 
there, on which was inscribed — " XX. Slivi Satvrnini Sipen- 
diorvm XIII. owm MXXXX.f 



* Rufus was a common name-among the Romans : — 
" Quicquid agit Rufus nihil est nisi noevia Rufo." — Martial 
f The road adjoining to where these remains of antiquity were 
found, was the Hermen or Irmin-street of the Romans, called by a 
Saxon word equivalent to the Latin, "via militaris," which Stukeley 
says " was made in the reign of Nero, and extended from the South- 
ern Ocean, through London, to the utmost bounds of Scotland." 



ANTIQUITIES. 207 

Many other remains of antiquity have recently been disco- 
vered in this city and its neighbourhood. A few months 
since, Mr. Wm. Bruorton, in sinking a well behind his house, 
in the Westgate-street, dug up a great number of bones of 
different animals, also a quantity of wood ashes, charcoal, 
pieces of wood partly burnt, and some fine specimens of 
Roman pottery. These bones, there can be no doubt, were 
the remains of animals which had been sacrificed by the 
Romans to their deities. They were found at a distance of 
twenty-one feet from the surface of the earth, which proves 
how much the ground of Gloucester must have been raised 
during a period of seventeen hundred years. 

Mr. Hale, of the Southgate-street, in digging out the foun- 
dation for a house which he lately built adjoining to the Ram 
Inn, discovered a beautiful tesselated pavement, of different 
colours, and in a fine state of preservation. 

In digging out for the foundation of a dwelling-house lately 
erected by Mr. Boughton, of the Westgate-street, in this city? 
ironmonger, a discovery was made of two beautiful columns, 
about three feet in diameter, standing ten feet from each 
other, and parallel with the street. These pillars were of 
freestone, finely executed, and must, from their size, have 
been part of a building of great consequence ; but, as their 
capitals were missing, it is impossible to say to what order of 
architecture they belonged. 



In the Bishop of Cloyne's communications to Messrs. Lysons, it is 
stated, that " the Irmin-street, coining from Cricklade through 
Preston to Cirencester, proceeds from thence, forming the turnpike- 
road to Gloucester, between Brimpsfield and Cowley, through 
Brock worth and Barn wood." 



208 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Mr. Fouracre, of this city, druggist, has lately sunk a well 
in the cellar of his house, opposite to the Tolsey, where the 
workmen discovered two very large stones, each of them 
weighing more than a ton, and standing several feet from each 
other. They appeared to have been part of a gateway, as the 
iron hooks which supported the gates were 'still remaining. 
It is recorded that the Tolsey was built on the site of the 
ancient Roman Capitol or Forum, and it is probable that this 
gateway was the entrance into a prison. 

Some interesting vestiges of antiquity have lately been dis- 
covered on the estate of William Ellis Viner, Esq. of Badg- 
worth, in this county. Upon making excavations there for 
the foundation of a dwelling-house, two stone walls of great 
thickness, running parallel with each other, and extending 
more than a hundred feet in length, have been found at a 
considerable depth below the surface of the earth. Mr. Rick- 
man, the celebrated architect, has examined these curious 
remains of early architecture, and has pronounced them of 
Banish origin, but, with all due deference to so great an 
authority, I am inclined to think that they are Saxon. Worth 
signifying in Saxon a mansion, it may in general be inferred, 
when this is the termination of a name, that the place was 
the residence or property of some Saxon chief, of whom 
nothing farther has been recorded. — The lovers of antiquarian 
science will be pleased to hear that Mr. Viner intends to 
prosecute his researches there, when, most likely, further 
discoveries will be made. 



TRAVELLING, ETC. 209 



TRAVELLING. 

The advantages derivable from the improvements which 
have taken place of late years in our mode of travelling, may 
be fairly estimated by a perusal of the following article : — 

" Within the memory of the writer of this article, there 
was only one stage-coach, which set out every Monday 
morning, and arrived on the Wednesday night following, at 
the Saracen's Head, Snowhill, London : it was drawn by 
six horses. The performance of so long a journey, in so 
short a time, was then considered as a great achievement, 
and the words " Gloucester Flying Machine," appeared in 
large letters of gold on the pannels of the coach-door. — 
The advertisements in the Gloucester Journals of those times 
stated, that the Gloucester Flying Machine would perform 
its journey, " if God permitted,"* in the short space of 
three days. — There are several old wills in the Registrar's 
Office, which begin thus — " Whereas I am about to take a 
journey to London, and whereas it is uncertain whether or 
not I may live to return, I do therefore think it necessary 
to make my last will and testament," &c. Such, however, 
is the revolution that has taken place within little more than 
half a century, that the same journey is now performed in 
less than twelve hours, and the number of stage coaches 
which come in and go out of this city amount to nearly 100 
daily. There was also one stage coach only that travelled 
from Gloucester to Bristol ; it was drawn by four horses, 

* We have now before us a Gloucester Journal, of the 23d of Nov, 
1738, containing an advertisement precisely to this effect, 



210 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

with ropes instead of traces, and performed the journey in 
the short space of one day ! The writer of this article also 
remembers the first post-chaise that was ever set up in 
Gloucester ; it had three wheels only, and the entrance was 
by a door behind the carriage, the ascent to which was by a 
step-ladder. The proprietor was a person of the name of 
Barnet Hughes, whose son afterwards distinguished himself 
at Astley's Amphitheatre, London*" 



GLOUCESTER NEWSPAPER. 

The Gloucester Journal^ one of the oldest provincial 
newspapers in the kingdom, was first published on Monday, 
the 9th of April, 1722, by Messrs. Raikes and Dicey, but 
the latter gentleman soon afterwards went to reside at North- 
ampton. The paper then continued, for an uninterrupted 
period of eighty years, in the family of Mr. Raikes. In 
April, 1802, it was purchased of the late Robert Raikes, 
Esq. by Mr. Walker, by whom, in conjunction with his two 
sons, it is still continued. It has a most extensive circula- 
tion, not only in Gloucestershire but in all the surrounding 
counties, 



ABSTRACT OF THE PRESENT CHARTER. 

Twelve Aldermen, including the Mayor ; thirty common 
Council-men at least, not more than forty ; a Recorder ; 
Mayor's side to have preponderance upon an equal division 
of votes : may punish by fine, amercement, and imprison- 
ment ; Common Council chosen for life, unless they misbe- 
have; persons refusing offices to be treated as naturally 



ABSTRACT OF CHARTER. 211 

dead, or removed; Aldermen or Burgesses, if not Free- 
men, to become such upon taking the Sacrament within 
one month of the date of the Charter ; Mayor, Aldermen, 
and senior Common-Council, not less than twenty in the 
whole, upon the Monday next following, to elect Mayor, 
Bailiffs, Chamberlain and Coroner, for the year ensuing ; 
another to be chosen in case of the Mayor's decease during 
office; same with Sheriffs, Coroner, or Chamberlain; Re- 
corder to be elected by Mayor and Aldermen; power of 
expulsion of Aldermen, &c. in not less than twenty-four, 
Mayor, Aldermen, and senior Common Council-men ; May- 
or, Aldermen, and Common Council-men may grant prece- 
dents by act of Common Council ; Town Clerk and Sword- 
bearer to be elected for life, unless removed for misbehavi- 
our, or they resign; four Serjeants at Mace; persons re- 
fusing offices may be committed, fined, and even deprived 
of their freedom ; Mayor, &c. may alter and amend cus- 
toms ; Mayor, Bishop, Recorder, Dean, Aldermen, and 
two Prebends, to be Justices of the Peace for the city; 
Mayor to be clerk of the market, and King's Steward or 
Marshal within the city ; Mayor and Corporation may tax 
citizens for repairs of bridges, and other requisite expenses ; 
no Guild or Fraternity to make statutes without license of 
the Corporation ; Charter of Richard II. confirmed concern^ 
ing holding pleas, &c; Tolsey Court to be held by She- 
riffs, as before ; County Court once a month, on a Tues- 
day, and a Law-day twice in a year, a month after Easter 
and Michaelmas ; Sheriffs may act by attorney out of their 
jurisdiction ; Sheriffs and Town Clerk to enrol and write 
recognizances of debts, &c. and have a greater and lesser 
seal ; Mayor and Burgesses may have chatties of outlaws, 
deodands, &c. tolls from all matters brought for sale, 
Tewkesbury excepted, and household necessaries, provided 



212 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER* 

for private use, not traffic ; two Burgesses to be elected to 
sit in Parliament ; fee-farm 65L ; confirmation of estates, 
courts, franchises, fairs, &c. &c» on condition of paying 
fee-farm ; no Quo Warranto or other process to be issued 
in future against Corporation ; omissions or defects in this 
Charter to be construed in favour of the Corporation; 
Judges may hold assizes for the County ; quarter sessions, 
commissions of sewers, and for charitable purposes, for the 
County of Gloucester, may be held within the City ; Town 
Clerk to take the oath of supremacy, and be approved by 
the crown ; the Hundreds of Dudston and King's Barton 
to be no longer County of the City. 



MANUFACTORIES, ETC. 213 



MANUFACTORIES, TRADE, AND COMMERCE. 



Prior to the Conquest, the chief employment of the inha- 
bitants of Gloucester was casting of iron ; hence among other 
articles paid to the crown, in the time of Edward the Con- 
fessor, were 36 dicres of iron, or 36 bars, and 100 iron rods, 
drawn out for the nails of the king's ships. There is little 
doubt but the iron manufactured in Gloucester was brought 
either from the neighbourhood of Lidney, by water, or from 
Ruerdean, by land carriage, in a state ready for the forge ; 
Smith-street, now the Bolt-lane, was probably inhabited by 
manufacturers of iron; and vast quantities of smiths' cinders 
have, at different times, been dug up in the gardens on the 
south side of the houses there. It is asserted by Sir Robert 
Atkyns, and by others since his time, that the ore was either 
dug in Robinhood's-Hill, or melted here, but that is impro- 
bable, and unsupported by any records, or the usual appear- 
ances of scoria, such as are found in the various parts of the 
Forest of Dean. The strong chalybeate waters which issue 
from the hill at Matson afford, indeed, a strong indication of 
iron, and there are few places where it does not exist in some 
proportion or other, but no species of ore has at any time 
been found ; and in the reign of Henry III. there was a place 
in the same street, called Colstal, being, as it is supposed, the 
depot of coals. — MSS. Frowc. 

William Montague, Esq. in the year 1802, established an 
Iron Foundry in this city, which has been gradually improv- 
ing to the present time, and is now arrived to such a state of 
perfection, in the neatness and excellence of its different pro- 
ductions, as to be equal, if not superior, to any other in Great 



214 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Britain. Mr. Telford, Mr. Smirke, Mr. Rickman, and many 
other scientific persons have visited this establishment, and 
have expressed their admiration of the various articles pro- 
duced there. Mr. Telford declared to the proprietor, that he 
had seen all the iron foundries, of any consequence, in Eu- 
rope, but that he had never met with any castings superior, 
and very few equal, to those at Gloucester. Articles of vari- 
ous kinds, from half an ounce to five or six tons weight, are 
manufactured there with such admirable exactness and pre- 
cision, as almost to defy competition. The medals of Napo- 
leon, and the views of the Cathedral and Harbour of Cologne, 
produced at this foundry, are matchless specimens of skill — 
when bronzed they look quite equal to copper, and are 
deservedly held in such estimation as to be found in the 
cabinets of the curious. Part of the iron with which this 
foundry is supplied is obtained from the Forest of Dean, 
where Mr. Montague has two furnaces in full employ, and 
preparations are making for erecting two others there ; one 
of the furnaces has already produced 50 tons a week. The 
sheet of water which supplies this stupendous work covers 40 
acres, is in some places 18 feet in depth, and is conveyed to 
the furnaces by an overshot wheel, of prodigious dimensions, 
(the component parts of which were cast at the foundry at 
Gloucester), being 50 feet high, 6 feet wide, and weighing 60 
tons ; but even this vast body of water is so inadequate to 
the demand, that a steam-engine of 90-horse power, has lately 
been erected there, to assist in blowing the furnaces. The 
foundry is under the management of Mr. Lacy, who has, for 
several years, conducted it with very great ability. The late 
Archdeacon Rudge, in his History of the City of Gloucester, 
printed in 1811, says, "an iron foundry is now working, 
under the direction of William Montague, Esq. to which 
every good citizen will join in wishing long and ample success." 



MANUFACTORIES, ETC. 215 

The wise reign of Elizabeth introduced into England 
the chief manufactory of this city, that of Pins, before which 
time, the prickles of thorns, curiously scraped, trimmed, and 
dried, were used for pins. 

Pins are now altogether made of brass wire, blanched ; 
formerly they were likewise made of iron wire, which being 
blanched like the others, passed for brass : but the ill effects 
of these pins have quite discarded their use, The French, 
however, could not be prevented from using them, without 
several arrettes of parliament. By a sentence of the Lieute- 
nant de Police, July 1695, the seizure of some millions of 
those pins was confirmed, and the pins condemned to be burnt 
by the common executioner. The perfection of pins consist 
in the stiffness of the wire and its blanching, in the heads 
being well turned, and the points filed. The English methods 
of pointing and blanching are in most repute, because their 
pinners, in pointing, use two steel mills, the first of which 
forms the point, and the other takes off all irregularities, 
rendering them smooth, and as it were polished. In the 
blanching they use black tin granulated, whereas in other 
parts they use a mixture of tin, lead, and quicksilver, which 
not only blanches worse than the former, but is also danger- 
ous, from the ill quality of that mixture, which renders a 
puncture with a pin thus blanched very difficult to cure. It 
has been erroneously stated in several publications, that 
twenty-five workmen are successively employed on each pin, 
between the drawing of the wire and the sticking of the pin in 
the paper, but we find that only twelve workmen are so em- 
ployed. The manufactory was introduced into Gloucester by 
John Tylsley, in the year 1626, as appears by the following 
document : — 

" Nono die Februarii, Anno Dui, 1626. 

" Memorandum. Ytt is agreed the daye and year above- 



216 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

wrytten, between John Tylsley, of the Cittie of Bristoll, 
Pynmaker, of the one partie, and the Mayor and Burgesses 
of the Cittie of Glouc. on the other pte. in manner and forme 
followinge, viz. — 

* ' First, that the Mayor and Burgesses att and uppon the 
requeste of the said John Tylsley, and to sett upp the trade 
of Pyn makeing in the said cittie, are content to provid for 
him a convenient house in the said cittie, the rent to be paid 
by the Chamber of the same cittie. 

" It™, The Mayor and Burgesses are content to lend 
the said John Tylsley cc *• uppon his owne securitie, so long 
as hee shall live and contineiue the said trade of Pyn makeing, 
and keep the poore on work, according to the true intente 
hereof, in this cittie of Glouc. 

" Item, Ytt is agreeduppon that the said John Tylsley shal 
be furnishee w th the nomber of 30 boyes at the leaste, to be 
exercysed by him in the said trade or occupation of Pyn 
makeing. 

" Item, The said Tylsley doe promise and agree, that he will 
give unto every of the said boyes 12 d - by the weeke duringe 
the firste yeare, and 15 d - by the weeke during the second 
yeare, and 18 d - by the weeke during the third yeare, accord- 
ing as he giveth unto the like in Bristol], as he affirmeth, and 
to pay them every satterdaie night, the payment to begin after 
the first moneth of every such boye that shal be appointed 
unto him. 

w It m , Ytt is agreed that any of the said boyes that bee soe 
sett on worke as aforesaid, shall not worke with any other 
Pyn maker during the said terme of three yeares. 

" By me, " John Tylsley." 

The above is transcribed from the original articles of agree- 
ment, in the possession of the Corporation of the city. 



MANUFACTORIES, ETC. 217 



BELL-FOUNDRY. 

It appears that a bell-foundry was established in this city 
more than 500 years ago, and has been continued, without 
intermission, to the present time. In an ancient book in the 
Tower of London, an entry is made, in the reign of Edward 
II. of money paid to John of Gloucester, for bells * The 
bells in the different churches here were cast at this foundry, 
with the exception of some in the tower of the Cathedral, of 
the 16th and 17th centuries, which were not cast at Glouces- 
ter. The great bell in the tower of the Cathedral, which 
weighs 6,500 pounds, has a coronet on it, which, according to 
Archdeacon Furney's MS. refers to the Dukes of Gloucester; 
and as the first Duke was created in 1345 or thereabout, was, 
in all probability, cast at this foundry. The inscription on it 
is " Me fecit fieri muncutus nomine Petri." Muncutus may 
as well mean the building dedicated to Saint Peter, as the 
person who presided over it. In the parish church of Saint 
Michael, near the entrance at the west end, is a large flat 
stone of granite, on which, within the memory of the editor, 
was a brass of very curious workmanship, representing a man 
between two women, with the figures of a bell and pot on 
three legs, to the memory of Wm. Henshawe, a bell-founder, 
and Agnes and Alice, his wives. He was five times Mayor 
of this city, and died in the year of our Lord God MCCCCC. 
Mr. Henshawe resided in a large house situated on the South 
side of the Eastgate-street, now divided into two houses, and. 
are the respective properties of James Wood, Esq. and Mr. 
Sterrey. The bell-founder's arms, finely executed on painted 

* This circumstance was communicated to the Editor by the late 
Samuel Lysons, Esq. F. A. S. Keeper of the Records in the Tower 
of London. 

K 



218 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

glass, are still preserved in two windows there. The foundry 
extended from thence to the Bell-lane, which derives its name 
from that circumstance, and not from the city-bellman having 
lived there, as erroneously stated by former writers. It is a 
very remarkable circumstance, that no bell can be found with 
the name of Henshawe upon it. The Editor, who has taken 
considerable pains to ascertain this fact, has in his possession 
the inscriptions upon all the bells of the different churches in 
this city. Before the establishment of Mr. Henshawe' s 
foundry, it was called Travell-lane, as appears from an anci- 
ent MS. survey of the city of Gloucester, made in the year 
1535, in the possession of the Editor. Mr. Henshawe' s sign, 
having the bell-founders' arms curiously carved in oak, is now 
in the possession of Mr. John Rudhall, of this city. For- 
merly the bells were tuned by chipping, and the inhabitants 
of this city were much disturbed by the tremendous noise 
occasioned by that operation ; but, about 30 years ago, Mr. 
Rudhall invented a very ingenious process of tuning them by 
a turning machine, which was found to answer the purpose so 
well, that it has been made use of ever since; and it is a very 
singular circumstance that this mode has not been adopted at 
any other foundry in the kingdom. 

The precise time when the family of the RudhalPs esta- 
blished their bell-foundry in this city is not known, but it is 
certainly more than 140 years ago. The names of the foun- 
ders were Abraham, sen. Abraham, jun. Abel, Thomas, and 
now John Rudhall. The number of church-bells cast by 
them, as stated in the printed lists, is 4,454 ; but those are 
omitted which, having been previously made by them, have 
been recast : therefore, it is probable the whole number may 
exceed 5,000. They have sent bells to most parts of Great 
Britain and Ireland, to the East and West Indies, and to 
North and South America. 



MANUFACTORIES, ETC. 219 

A great deal was likewise formerly done here in the Cloth- 
ing business, and several places and streets retain the names 
which were assumed from the particular branches of it ; but 
at present no cloth is manufactured. 

The Woolstapling trade flourished during the last hundred 
years, but is now reduced within very narrow limits. Messrs. 
Helps, Messrs. Garn and Baylis, and Mr. Woodliffe, are the 
only persons engaged in it. 

The loss of these resources for the employment of the 
lower classes, has been in some measure made up by the 
Hemp and Flax-dressing business, which is carried on upon 
a very large scale, by Mr. Church and Mr. Taylor. 

The Brush manufactory of Messrs. Jones and Sons, is 
carried on upon a very extensive scale, and supplies most of 
the surrounding counties ; they have obtained, at different 
times, no less than three patents, for various improvements, 
made by them, in articles used in the clothing business. 

About sixty years ago, an Edge-tool manufactory was 
established in this city, by the late Mr. Cox, which is now 
conducted by his son-in-law, Mr. James Buchanan, with as 
much credit to the present gentleman, and satisfaction to the 
trade, as it was in the time of the late celebrated proprietor. 

A Sugar-House was erected in this city, by Mr. Hanning- 
ton, about seventy years ago, where the sugar refining branch 
was carried on by him, and subsequently by Mr. Ercks, but 
necessarily given up, as was also the manufacture of Glass. 
These failures were, perhaps, owing more to the jealousy of a 
neighbouring large commercial town, than to any real disad- 
vantage, either of situation or resources. It is expected, 
however, that we shall soon see some spirited individuals 
make another attempt, to restore to the city those very im- 
portant branches of commerce. 



220 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



PORT OF GLOUCESTER. 



The rising importance of the city of Gloucester as a trading 
station, the extraordinary increase in its commercial trans- 
actions within the last two years, through the medium of the 
Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, and the certainty that its 
mercantile relations must be still further most considerably 
enlarged, all tend to excite great public interest in whatever 
is connected with the Port. We are satisfied, therefore, that 
any particulars as to its ancient and present state will demand 
attention. Many of the passages are of a very curious 
nature, and are extracted from original MSS, and other valu- 
able sources. 

In the year 1580, (22d Elizabeth), Customs were granted 
by letters patent. The next year the Custom-House was 
erected ; also a Wharf, or Quay, for ships, vessels, and light- 
ers to come into; it is called the King's Quay; and the limits 
of the Porte are extended from a place they called Welshe 
Rode, to Shrewsbury, taking in all the intermediate places 
of Gatcomb, Newnham, &c. as creeks to it. The Quay is 
mentioned in the reign of Edward IV. ; and the lane leading 
to the quay in that of Henry VII. The old and new Quays 
are expressly mentioned in the present charter. 

After this Port was erected by Queen Elizabeth, a bill of 
complaint was presented against it by the inhabitants of Bris- 
tol, of which the following is a copy : — 



THE PORT. 221 

" To ye. Queen's most Excellent Majestie. 
" Humbly complaininge, sheweth unto your most Excel- 
lent Majestie, your obedient and faithfull subjects the Mayor 
and Cominalty of your Highnesses cittie of Bristoll : That 
whereas your Highnesses said cittie hath always been main- 
tained by the only trade of merchandize, and chiefly by the 
means of the sufficiency and saftie of the ports of ye. said 
cittie, wherein hath been builded and maintayned, from time 
to time, many great and serviceable ships, with skillful mar- 
riners to lead ye. same for ye. service of your Majestie' s and 
of your Progenitors, when cause hath required ; and where 
also ye. provision and relief of ye. said cittie hath contiually, 
until now of late, been had out of the townes and counties 
adjoining upon your Maj. river of Severn, and upon ye. 
creeks of ye. same inwards towards ye. land ; which creeks 
until of late were parcell of ye. port of Bristoll, belonging to 
the same, and controlled by your Maj, officers there ; so it 
is, if it may please your Highness, that by reason that your 
Maj. by your letters patent about two years past hath granted 
unto the Mayor and Burgesses of ye. cittie of Gloucester, 
that all on ye. chiefest creek in ye. said river of Severn, as 
Berkeley, Newnham, Gloucester, Tewkesburie, Gatcombe, 
and ye. rest, should and shall be portes of lodging and dis- 
charging of ships with merchandize to ye. parts beyond ye. 
seas, which for want of depth of water are utterly insufficient 
for any convenient or serviceable ships to ride or fleet in ; 
and have also by ye. same ordeyned a Customer (or Collector 
and Controwler) properly belonging unto ye. same, whereby 
your Highness said cittie of Bristoll, and ye. trade of mer- 
chandize there, is impayred, ye. cittizens impoverished, and a 
general dearth of corne, grain, butter, and cheese, thereby 
risen, as well within ye. same cittie, as also in the countries 
thereabouts, great and serviceable ships, and the marriners 



( 222 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

thereof, growen and growing also into decay, pirates increased, 
with many other inconveniences, which in certain articles 
ready to be delivered to your Maj. Honourable Counsell, 
particularly more at large may appear ; in tender consider- 
ation whereof, may it please your Highness to commit ye. 
performing and consideration of ye. said articles to your 
Honourable Counsell, that order may be taken for ye. refor- 
mation of ye. enormities before mentioned according to ye. 
necessity of ye. cause ; and your said obedient subjects and 
citizens, and all the countries thereabouts adjoining, shall, 
according to their bounden duty, pray for ye. preservation of 
your Majestie unto the Allmighty God, with long life and 
felicity to raign over us." 

" After our very hearty comendations : Whereas by Peti- 
tion lately exhibited, complaint is made unto her Majestie 
and her Counsell, by the Mayor and Burgisses of Bristoll, of 
many inconveniencies likely to arise unto that cittie by ye. 
late erecting of a Custom-House at Gloucester ; ye. consi- 
deration whereof being referred unto me as her Maj. Speciall 
Officer for those causes; and for that ye. said information is 
here presented on ye. behalf of the said Mayor and Cittie of 
Bristoll : These are therefore to require you to cause some 
learned and skilfull person or persons of that your cittie, to 
be sent up hither, with sufficient instructions to answer ye . 
information of them of Bristoll, and further to deale in that 
matter for you, that some present proceeding therein may be 
had : Whereof fail ye not, so fare ye well. From ye. Coun- 
sell this 18th of June, 1582. Your very loving friend, 

" W. BURGHLEY." 
THE ANSWER. 

" Upon ye. receipt of this, Mr. Mayor and his brethren 
took Mr. Luke Garnonce should travel to London, to attend 
his pleasure, and to answer and defend agt. ye. cittie of Bris- 
toll, who went up in ye. end of Trinity Term, 



THE PORT. 223 

" Eight Honourable — Ye. manyfold tokens of your care of 
ye. estate of this cittie, both in augmenting the liberties 
thereof, heretofore by you most bountifully imployed and 
atchieved, and now in the present maytenance and defence of 
ye. same agt. our adversaries, sufficiently and apparently 
manifested, do give us most cause, with most dutifull and 
humble thanks, to acknowledge ye. same, both ourselves and 
our posterities, to be most bounden unto your Honour for 
ever ; sith our neighbour of Bristoll cease not to prosecute 
their former complaint against us without cause, we shall, 
according to ye. contents of your honourable letter to us 
addressed, prepare persons instructed for answering of them, 
doubting not but having your honourable favour to satisfye 
what shall be objected ; wherein, as we have from ye. begin- 
ning found your Honour most ready, so we are most humbly 
to pray ye. countenance of your wonted goodness towards 
us. And so, most humbly taking our leave, do commit your 
Honour to ye. protection of Almighty God, whom we 
beseech you preserve in much honour and long life. — ^Glou- 
cester, this 22d of June, 1582. 

" Your Honour most humble at commandement, 

"John Smyth, Mayor." 

The following is extracted (verbatim) from the articles 
delivered to her Majesty's Council : 

" Brystowe is scytuated in an angle betweene the counties 
of Somerset and Gloucester, maynteyned only by the trade 
of merchandizes, and making ventinge of collored clothes for 
the sea, made in Brystowe and in Somersetshire, wherewith 
many thousand of handy craftsmen have been set awoorke 
and maynteyned ; and they have also great store of ledde out 
of Somersetshire, with which their trade of merchandizes they 
have alwaies sufficiently furnished all the counties adjoyning 



224 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

to the said river, as also all towns and counties lyinge upon 
and near aboute the river of Severn, and the creeks of the 
same, as furre inwarde the land as to the town of Shrews- 
burie. 

" Gloucester is no place for trade or merchandize, because 
they have no lawfull wares meete to be transported in shippes 
serviceable or defensible, to transporte and retorne merchan- 
dize if they had any. Gloucester standeth upon other goode 
trade and concourse of people, whereby they have been well 
maynteyned ; but yf they adventure any thing at sea, the 
same is in small barkes, with corn and prohibited wares, 
wherewith they make more profitable retournes than Brys- 
towe wyth their great shippinge and lawfull wares can doe. 

"Gloucester standethe between Brystowe and Wigorn, 
Warr (i. e. Warwick), Coventry, and Shrewsburie, and all 
other places upp Severn, where the merchants of Brystowe 
did usually make their vente of such commodities as they 
bringe from beyond seas ; but yf the same continues a poorte 
they do not only serve themselves, but also those other 
counties and towns about them ; and so the trade of Brys- 
towe, and their great shippes, when the vente of their com- 
modyties is taken from them, must consequently decaye. 

" When the deputies of Gloucester delivered their books to 
the officers of Brystowe, they were then able to find their 
Orforders and to reforme them, mete with them, and staye 
their passage, which now they cannot do, 

" The city of Brystowe, which in times past hadd the most 
part of then' grayne from upp Severne, have not had, within 
three years after the erection of the Custom-House at Glou- 
cester, ten quarters of wheat from them, and have been 
restrayned of grayne to come to Brystowe; so as when they 
have occasion, they must nowe travell to Gloucester for a 
cockett, and there put in sureties j and yf they obtayne it, 



THE PORT. 225 

the same is not without great difficulty, which is a great over- 
throwe and chaunge to the said city of Brystowe. 

" Irishe men also, with their barkes, have found a directe 
trade to Gloucester, and all to shippe away corn ; and soe 
we lose the benefit of their comodyties and the utteringe of 
our owne ; another great decaie to us. 

" The trade and shippinge of Brystowe is already so de- 
cayed by reason of the premises, that they have done awaye 
and must do awaye their great shippinge, and have offered the 
same to be sold at their great losse ; for although the great 
shippes be more worthier and more serviceable, yet are the 
small sort more profitable for the merchants, and better 
chepe to be freyghted, and will turne and winde in narrower 
places, &c. 

" May it please your Honours, of your accustomed regarde 
in such urgente distresses, to be a meane to her Majestie, 
that the said letters patent may be repealed, and the sayd city 
and port of Brystowe be restored to their auncyent estate, 
for yn in the begynning of these decayes we think it not our 
part to be silent." 

Only eight years after this Port had been erected, the 
following letters were received by the Mayor : — 

Copy °f a Letter from Queen Elizabeth to the Mayor of Glou- 
cester and the Bailiff of Tewkesbury. 

" To our loving Friends commendations : Whereas her 
Majesty, being daily advertised of a great preparation which 
the King of Spain doth make for the invading of this realm, 
hath commanded us to prescribe unto certain havens and 
inland towns to furnish to the seas a certain number of ships 
in warlike manner, to joyn with the navy royal for the defence 
of the whole realm ; unto which end, forasmuch as we are 

inform' d that the said King strengtheneth and encreaseth his 

K2 



226 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

navy daily, we have thought it necessary to provide in time, 
that the number of ships appointed for the preservation of her 
Majesty and the realm might be sufficient to encounter with 
the enemie's navy; and therefore as diverse other towns 
have been taxed by us according to her Majesty's express 
command in so necessary a strait, with setting to sea ships in 
a warlike manner, so we have found it needful to charge you, 
of Gloucester and Tewkesbury, to furnish ratably the whole 
expences which have been laid forth in rigging up, manning and 
setting forth the ship called the Bark Sutton, a ship of eighty 
tun, stor'd with victuals for three months, reimbursing again 
by a reasonable contribution the said expence unto whom the 
Lord Admiral nominate unto you, who shall particularly 
declare unto you all the charges laid forth in preparing and 
setting of the said ship to sea : And in case it should so 
happen that any difference or controversy shall arise for the 
taxation of the said contribution, we require you, the Mayor 
of Gloucester, and also you, the head officers of Tewkesbury, 
to moderate and order the same ; which our request we doubt 
not but that this great preparation is not made for any private 
use, but for the public maintenance of every inhabitant of this 
realm : And thus not mistrusting but that you will have 
speedy regard of the premises, we bid you heartily farewell. 
From the Court at Greenwich, this 12th May, 1588. 

" Your loving friends, 

W. Burghley. A. Warwick. 

Hunsdon. T. Heneage. 

FRA. WALSINGHAM, J. WoLLEY. 

Chr. Hatton, Cancr. 

C. Howard." 



THE PORT. 227 

" To our very loving Friends, the Mayor of the city of Glou- 
cester, and the Bailiff of the town of Tewkesbury : 
" After our hearty commendations : Whereas we wrote our 
former letters unto you, the Mayor and principal Officers of 
Gloucester and Tewkesbury, upon order given unto diverse 
ports and inland towns, to furnish certain ships to the sea, for 
her Majes tie's service, that you should be charged to furnish 
ratably, the whole charge and expence that had been laid 
forth in preparing and manning of a ship called the Bark 
Sutton. And whereas, since you do give us to understand, 
that you are most ready and well contented, so that the fore- 
said composition, which was by us laid upon you, might be 
fully exempted, to furnish and set forth to the sea, at your 
own free cost and expences, for the employment of your own 
men, one good and serviceable ship, of the burthen of three 
score and fifteen tuns, and a pinnace of twenty-five tuns ; foras- 
much as we perceive your forwardness in this service and the 
former imposition laid upou you, amount (as you do inform) 
to a greater charge unto you then your proffer for finding and 
seting forth upon your ship and pinnace, (by reason you can 
afford the victuals and munition of your own at better price,) 
and your vessels of great force to assist and strengthen her 
Majestic' s navy : These shall therefore be to will and require 
you, the inhabitants of the city of Gloucester, and the 
county of the same, with the town of Tewkesbury, situated 
in the County of Gloucester, precisely to rig, man, and set 
forth to the seas your said ship and pinnace, to repair to our 
very good E. the Lord Admiral, where he now is, to join 
with her Majesty's forces on the seas, for the better strength- 
ening the same, and letters written heretofore unto you from 
us notwithstanding unto the contrary ; And withall we re- 
quire you, the Mayor of the said city, and you, the Bailiffs of 
the said town, sufficiently in all points to furnish and set forth 



228 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

the said bark and pinnance; so not doubting but that you will 
have that speedy regard for performance of the premises as 
appertained, we bid you heartily farewell. From the Court 
at Greenwich, the Second of June, 1588." 

" Your very loving Friends, 
Jo. Cant. S. Wollep. W. Burleigh. 

T. BUCKHURSTE. HuNSDON. T. HeNEAGE. 

Chr. Hatton, Cancr. Fra. Walsingham. F Knollys." 

" To our very loving Friends, the Mayor and Aldermen 
of Gloucester, and the Bailiff of the town of Tewkes- 
bury, and his Brethren : 

" After our hearty commendations : Whereas some con- 
troversy hath arisin between this bearer, Rich. Webb, Gent., 
and one John Niccolls, whether of them should be allowed to 
have served with their ship for that city of Gloucester, and the 
town of Tewkesbury, and receive of the same satisfaction for 
their service : Forasmuch as the said Rich. Webb, with his 
ship, was in the beginning of the late service appointed by 
me, the Admiral of England, to serve for those said towns, 
and accordingly was employed in service with her Majestic' s 
navy during the continuance thereof, being five months, 
having sustained all charges, as well of victual as otherwise ; 
and that it hath appeared unto us, that the said Niccolls, tho' 
he was appointed to serve upon untrue suggestion that Webb 
was not in service, did nevertheless not come unto her Ma- 
jestic' s navy, as he ought in anytime of the service, but con- 
trarywise had remained at his pleasure, and, as we are 
credibly informed, committed piracies: We have thought 
good straitly to charge and require you to make present 
payment unto the said Webb of three hundred pounds to- 
wards his charge in the said service, whereof he is content to 



THE PORT. 229 

accept, tho' his demand, according to her Majestic' s rates, 
amounted to four hundred pounds : And whereas you have 
security from Niccolls to be reanswered those sums which 
you have paid unto him for his setting forth unto the sea? 
you are for your indemnity to recover and take satisfaction 
thereof by virtue of the said security of Niccolls ; and so re- 
quiring you to use no delay in satisfying Webb of the said 
sum of three hundred pounds, we bid you heartily farewell, 
From the Court at St James, the 19th of October, 1588. 

Fra. Walsingham. 
Car. Hatton. Cha. Howard. 

W. BURGHLEY. T. HeNEAGE. 

Jo. WoLLEY." 

Mr. Dorney takes the following notice of the trade of the 
city : — 

" There have been also divers changes in respect of trade ; 
for heretofore there was a guild-merchant and a mint, and 
K. John granted unto them to be free from toll and other 
immunities ; which trade afterwards decayed ; but of late it 
hath been somewhat revived by some gentlemen, who deserve 
commendation,' and I wish some others would joyn with 
them in promoting of the merchandizing trade, which is the 
most likely means to make this a flourishing city." 

That merchandizing here signified foreign trade, is plain 
from the following passage, under the Mayorality of Joseph 
Clutterbooke, Oct. 1647. " You know that one of the 
Sheriffs this year, Mr. Henry Ellis by name, had his writ of 
discharge, and died in his Shrievalty: but being sensible 
thereof, and not contented with his expressions of his love to 
this city before, and out of his zeal to advance merchandizing 
therein after his decease, he made some provisions for the 
same in his will, out of his adventure at sea, thereby leaving 



230 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

a good example to others, and a memorial to posterity of 
his public spirit, and a good affection to this place." 

It has been observed by an engineer, (Mr. Mules of Stour- 
port,} that the separation of the Severn, by which the 
Island of Alney is formed, affords to the opulent city of 
Gloucester perhaps far greater natural advantages for im- 
proving its port, than is possessed by any other mercantile 
place in the kingdom, and at so inconsiderable an expence 
that the design cannot fail to be put in execution. This im* 
portant advantage may be effected simply by the erection of 
a lock at each end of this Island, called the Upper and Lower 
Partings, for keeping up the water at a proper height in the 
east branch of the river, which passeth by the city of Glou- 
cester, leaving the west branch by Over and Maisemore 
always open to the tide- way course. The incalculable benefit 
which would evidently result from such an improvement, 
preventing the serious damages constantly sustained by the 
setting in and irresistible violence of high spring-tides, would 
be greatly increased by the erection of a swivel or turning 
bridge across the Severn, at the Westgate of the city, suf- 
ficiently strong for all purposes. The old bridge (this is now 
removed) has been found much more incommodious to trade 
than has been generally imagined, there being a very strong 
current in that part of the river when the tide is out; but by 
the improvement here suggested,, the east part of the Severn 
would be rendered an unagitated fine quiescent sheet of water, 
where any vessel might lie in safety, and the business of 
lading and unlading might be performed with ease and secu- 
rity. It is said, that the Berkeley Canal supersedes these 
suggestions; but the trade of this port has lately increased 
to so great an extent that, although an additional basin has 
been recently made, it will soon be found necessary to have 
further accommodations for the shipping that are continually 



THE PORT. 231 

arriving from the different ports of Europe, Africa, and 
America. 

It was formerly a question of considerable doubt, whether 
any part of the River Severn, between the port of Gloucester 
and the port of Bristol, was open sea. This point however 
was settled in the year 1780, by the verdict of a Jury, in a 
cause of considerable importance to the freedom of trade, in 
the navigation of the River Severn, which was tried before 
a Special Jury for this city, in which Mr. Bartlett, pin-maker, 
was plaintiff, and Mr. Mease, an Officer of the Customs in 
the port of Gloucester, defendant. The action was brought 
on account of a seizure made by the defendant, of British 
manufactured brass wire, brought by water from the port of 
Bristol to the port of Gloucester, without a sufferance or 
warrant, which is required by an act of Charles II. for [re- 
venting frauds and regulating abuses in the Customs, for 
goods to be carried forthwith to the open sea from one port of 
England to another. — After an accurate examination, and 
learned arguments on the question of what ought to be 
deemed the open sea, the Jury gave a verdict for the plaintiff, 
to the full satisfaction of the Court; by which it is establish- 
ed, that no part of the course navigated by vessels trading 
from Bristol to Gloucester is the open sea ; and, consequently, * 
that no such sufferance or warrant is necessary for goods 
shipped from one of the said ports to the other. By the 4th 
of Geo. 3d. cap. 107, it is provided, that Collectors, in cer- 
tain cases, may grant general transire for coasting vessels. 
It appeared in evidence on the trial of the above cause, that 
no less than 600 vessels were in one year, since the peace, 
cleared from the port of Bristol to the port of Gloucester. 

At the same Assizes, also, was brought on an indictment 
for nuisance, in obstructing the navigating of the River 
Severn, by the erection of fishing-puts. — The defendants 



232 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

claimed a prescriptive right, in the proof of which they failed, 
not being able to adduce evidence of the exercise of that right 
for more than thirty years past, which by law is not sufficient: 
a verdict was therefore given for the plaintiff. 

The Committee of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce have 
published a Report, in which they state, that " the large po- 
pulation of the city — of Somersetshire, Gloucestershire, 
South- Wales — for all which Bristol ought to be the market 
whence all their supplies would be with most advantage 
drawn," &c. 

The Proprietors of the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, as 
well as the inhabitants of Gloucester, may perhaps be allowed 
to differ in opinion with the Bristol Chamber of Commerce 
in this respect, and may think that Gloucester ought to be the 
market whence all the supplies from these places would be 
■with more advantage drawn. 

The report also states, that " the opening the Berkeley 
Canal, has given a safer, more expeditious, and certain 
means of communication with the towns of Birmingham, 
Worcester, and all others in that line." The Proprietors of 
the Canal perfectly agree in opinion with the Committee in 
this point ; but it is extremely evident, that if Bristol derives 
great advantages from such " safer, more expeditious, and 
certain means of communication" with these places, much 
greater advantages must Gloucester derive, on account of its 
being almost seventy miles nearer to them, and also in avoid- 
ing the dangers of the navigation on the Eiver Severn. The 
merchants of Gloucester by no means envy the growing pros- 
perity of those of Bristol; on the contrary, they rejoice at 
their neighbours' success, and hope that they shall soon be 
able to partake of it. 

" Say, shall our little barks attendant sail, 
Pursue the triumph and partake the gale ?" 



THE PORT. 233 

Since the opening of the Canal, the demand for timber has 
increased to a prodigious extent. The inhabitants of Bir- 
mingham and the adjoining districts, are now supplied with 
that article delivered to them there, at 6d. per foot, or 25s. 
per ton, cheaper than they can purchase it at Bristol or Liver- 
pool ! Some of the vessels employed in this trade carry 400 
tons ; consequently there is a saving of £500. upon each car- 
go, independent of the carriage. It is not therefore to be won- 
dered at, that Gloucester is now become the great depot for 
timber and other articles from the Baltic. This difference of 
price may be accounted for, from the impolitic restraints that 
are imposed on vessels of every description, that enter the 
port of Bristol, all of which are liable to the payment of town- 
dues, anchorage, moorage, dock-dues, mayor's dues, sheriff's 
dues, and a long train of other dues, from which the port of 
Gloucester is entirely exempted. 

The limits of the port of Gloucester, according to practice, 
are from the spring of the Severn, in Montgomeryshire, North 
Wales, to the influx at Beachley — Chappel Rock on the north, 
and across to Aust Pill, on the south side, including both 
banks of the river. 

" 1st George the Fourth, (November 23d, 1820)— Fiat 
from the Lords of the Treasury to the King's Remembrancer 
in the Exchequer : — A Commission issued from that Court 
for setting out the Port of Gloucester, and Quays therein. 

M Limits.— That the Port of Gloucester shall commence at 
Chappel Rock or St. Teclas Point, at Beachley, on the north 
side of the River Severn, in the county of Gloucester, across 
the said river to Aust Pill, on the south side of the said River, 
in the same county, including both banks of the River, up to 
the Westgate-Bridge, in the city of Gloucester ; with all the 
waters, creeks, streams, and channels, within the said bounds 
and limits contained," 



234 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



OFFICERS OF THE PORT OF GLOUCESTER. 

INNER DEPARTMENT. 

Thomas Jenkins, Esq. Collector, and Collector of Light, 
Greenwich, Merchant Seamen's Hospital, Russia, and other 
Dues ; Deputy to the Patentee for publishing the Customs 
Bills of Entry. 

William Thomas Coleman, Esq. Comptroller; Principal and 
Comptrolling Surveyor of Warehouses ; Landing and Tide 
Surveyor. 

James Buchanan Davis, Collector's Clerk, and Warehouse- 
keeper for Bonded Goods. 

OUT-DOOR DEPARTMENT. 

George Green Steger, Searcher, and Landing and Coast 
Waiter. 

William Monk, Locker and Weigher. 

At Beachley — Joseph Gunn, Tide Surveyor. 

George Hurcum, Samuel Averett, David Griffith, and Ste- 
phen Hore, Tide Waiters and Boatmen. 

AtLidney — Charles Jefford, Principal Coast Officer; and 
John Burgh Blannin, Comptroller and Coast Waiter. 

The Lawful Quays, (set out by the Collector, Thomas 
Jenkins, Esq. the Commissioner appointed by the Court of 
Exchequer, together with those of his nomination, in the 
Mayoralty of John Phillpotts, Esq.) are, from the wharf in 
the occupation of Mr. J.White, trow-owner, including the 
whole of the Quays, Wharfs, and Banks, in a direct line to, 
and including, the Basin of the Gloucester and Berkeley 
Canal, and the Wharfs and Banks belonging thereto, 



THE PORT. 235 

The Severn, so named from the British Hqforn> of which 
see Sel don's Notes on Drayton's Polyolbion.* Hennius stiles 
this River " one of the Arms of Britain ; and, by noticing its 
decay of trade in his time (7th century) insinuates its commer- 
cial greatness (" per quae olim rates vehebantur ad deportandas 
divitias.") in the Roman and British aera. 

" The Severn rises from a small pond on the north-eastern 
side, near the summit of Plinlimmon, in Wales. The inhabi- 
tants call it Hafiren, or Havren, as it flows through a wild dis- 
trict towards the S. E. to Llanidloes. As it approaches 
Newtown, it assumes the name of Severn. It then passes 
through the vale of Montgomeryshire, and, beyond Welsh- 
pool, enters Shropshire, and, having almost encircled the 
town of Shrewsbury, passes Colebrook Dale, flowing by 
Bridgenorth, Bewdley, Worcester, Tewkesbury, and Glouces- 
ter ; and continuing its course some miles beyond Newnham, 
is called the Bristol Channel, till it empties itself into the 
Atlantic Ocean, between the Land's End and the extreme 
point of Pembrokeshire. The distance of this course is more 
than 200 miles." 

It is certain, that the city of Gloucester was a place of con- 
siderable trade in the reign of the Saxon King Harold II. 
1066, and which considerably increased for several hundred 
years after. Gildas, in his Description of England, describes 
the mouth of the Severn as one channel by which foreign 
luxuries were imported. 

" Queen of the Western Rivers, Severn, hsfcl ! 

" The boast of Gloucester, glory of her vale ; 

" Long may thy broad expanse of waters sweep 

" In rolling volumes to the kindred deep ! " 

* Guliel Slatyer, in his Paloe Albion, Ode 4, Canz. 6, page 93, 
derives the name from Sabrina, or Habren, daughter to King Loc- 
rine and the beauteous Estrild. 

" Pulchra Sabrina suis ludens prope flumina lymphis, 
" Ex ilia Cambros hac parte interluit Anglos." 



286 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER* 



GLOUCESTER AND BERKELEY CANAL* 



NUMBER OF VESSELS 

From the opening of the Canal, to Dec. 31, 1827 2081 

to Dec. 31, 1828 4272 

to Apl. 26, 1829 1388 

7741 

TONNAGES tons. 

As above, to December 31, 1827 99,280 

to December 31, 1828 228,574 

to April 26, 1829 65,667£ 

393,521 i 



The receipt of Duties at our Custom-house during the year 
1828, exceeded that of the one preceding by £16,000. — 
This result, in its present state of infancy, justifies expecta- 
tions of an accession of commerce to an immense extent. 

In the printed report of the Committee of the Gloucester 
and Berkeley Canal, at a special assembly held the seventh 
of May, 1816, it is stated that — "The geographical situation 
of Gloucester will make her a port of the first-rate conse- 
quence, as her communications will open directly into the 
very heart and centre of the kingdom ; and looking at Bir- 
mingham and its vicinity, as the pivot upon which her com- 
mercial communications will directly operate, both as to the 
import and export trade, she will have a most decisive advan* 
tage over every other port in the kingdom. 



THE CANAL. 237 

" The produce of the West- Indian and American markets, 
the trade of France, Spain, Portugal, the Mediterranean, 
the Levant, Ireland, South and North Wales, and the 
Northern States of Europe, will all find their way to the port 
of Gloucester, as the most central port for distribution of 
commerce, through the important manufacturing and trading 
districts of the kingdom, of which Birmingham may be con- 
sidered as the grand centre of motion. The opening of the 
Birmingham and Worcester Canal, and the speedy completion 
of the Stratford-on-Avon Canal, will tend very much to 
extend and improve the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal trade 
communications, and will, in a peculiar and striking degree, 
open most important channels with the extensive coal, iron, 
and other mines, and the produce of South Wales, which will 
with great facility and expedition be brought into all the 
interior parts of the kingdom, as the communication between 
Lidney and Sharpness Point will be open every day for all 
such coal and other trading vessels as can now only go to 
Gloucester during spring tides. At the same time your 
Committee beg leave to observe, that your Canal will add 
infinite value and importance to the Birmingham and Worces*- 
ter Canal, whose trade it will increase in almost a tenfold 
degree ; they therefore confidently rely on the interest, sup- 
port, and exertion of the Proprietors of that undertaking." — 
All these anticipations of the Committee have been realised ; 
and perhaps there is not one instance to be found, of any port 
in this kingdom having risen into notice with such rapidity. 

Some opinion of the immensity of this undertaking may be 
formed, when we state that the expenditure to the present 
time has amounted to half a million sterling. 

" By this great work we have the happiness of knowing, 
that we have opened to the commercial world the vales of 
Warwick, of Worcester, and of Gloucester, rich in their 



238 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

varied stores ; and we trust that the natural consequence will 
be, that the time is not far distant when Gloucester will 
become the emporium of the west." 

Sharpness Point is a bold promontory, projecting a con- 
siderable distance into the Severn, and where, during ordinary 
spring tides, the tides flow from 23 to 30 feet; besides 
which, there are always from 4 to 10 feet at low water mark ; 
but at high spring tides there are upwards of 40 feet. 

A Pier has been lately erected there, which for excellency 
of workmanship, solidity, and every other necessary requisite, 
is not to be surpassed by any in the kingdom. It is entirely 
built of stone obtained from the Forest of Dean, and is of the 
most durable kind. The pier extends in length into the river 
about 200 feet, exclusive of the sea wall, three quarters of a 
mile in length. Height of the wall of the pier 40 feet. The 
lock gates are 40 feet high and 40 feet wide, and weigh 40 
tons. There are three pair of those gates, of equal dimen- 
sions, near to each other, at one entrance from the Basin into 
the Canal, and others of smaller dimensions for barges at the 
other entrance. The Basin contains one acre. 

In making the foundations for the pier and the walls of the 
basin, it was necessary to employ gunpowder for blowing up 
the rock. The quantity used for that purpose was 30 tons. 
570 men were employed in this arduous undertaking, which 
cost about the sum of .£35,000. exclusive of any other works 
on the canal. 

The whole expenses incurred in making the canal, basin, 
locks, bridges, culverts, &c, including the acts of parliament, 
amounted to the sum of at least £500,000. 

The Port of Gloucester appears to be very advantageously 
situated, with reference to the Irish Trade generally, and 



THE CANAL. 239 

more particularly as to that of its staple article, Corn. Vessels 
bringing cargoes of Irish grain to Gloucester, will find a ready 
vent for their lading at Birmingham, in Staffordshire, and 
the Upper Districts, where the consumption is great, and the 
production of that indispensible necessary of life is compara- 
tively small. Back cargoes of coal, bark, salt, bricks, &c. may 
be obtained by the Irish traders at Gloucester, on terms as 
favourable as at any other Port. 

In order that the commercial public may be enabled to 
form an opinion as to the expense of sending a cargo to 
Gloucester, the Tonnage-Rates which the Canal-Company 
charges for Goods passing along the entire length of the 
Canal, are hereunder given, on a few of the principal articles 
of import — premising, however, that this Rate is the only 
charge made on vessel and cargo, excepting Id. per ton for 
lockage in certain cases. 



RATES. 




Bricks 


per 1000 .. 


. 3s. 


Butter 


per Ton .. 


. 3s. 


Cattle 


each 


. u 


Chalk and Clay ... 


per Ton 


. Is. 6d. 


Coals 




. 0s. 8d. 


Copper, Tin, Pewter 


.. 


. 3s. 


Corn 


per Quarter.. 


. 5d. &6d. 


Deals and Timber ... 


per Ton 


. 2s. 6d. 


Earthenware 


per Crate .. 


. 0s. 6d. 


Flints 


per Ton 


. Is. 


Flour 


., 


. 4*. 


Glass Ware 


.. 


. 3*. 6d. 


Grocery of all kinds 


.. 


, 4*. 


Hay 


.. 


. 2s. 6d. 



240 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Hemp and Flax ... per Ton. ... 3s. 6d. 

Iron ... Is. to 2s. 

Lead ... 2s. 6d. 

Molasses ... 3s. 

Oils of all kinds per Tun of 252 Galls. 5s. 

Potatoes per Ton ... Is. 

Rice ... ... ... 3s. 

Rosin ... 3s. 

Salt ... Is. 6d. 

Slates ... Is. 6d. 

Tallow ... 3s. 6d. 

Tobacco ... 4s. 

Wine per Pipe ... 2s. 6d< 



APPENDIX. 



REPRESENTATIVES IN PARLIAMENT. 

FOR THE CITY, 

EDWARD WEBB, Esq. 1816. 
ROBERT BRANSBY COOPER, Esq. 1818. 

FOR THE COUNTY, 

LORD R. E. H. SOMERSET, 1803. 
SIR BERKELEY WILLIAM GUISE, Bart. 1811. 



LORD LIEUTENANT OF THE COUNTY. 

His Grace the DUKE of BEAUFORT. 



MEMBERS OF THE CORPORATION. 

His R. H. the DUKE of GLOUCESTER, High Steward. 
The Right Hon. JOHN LORD SOMERS, Recorder. 

THOMAS COMMELINE, Esq. Chamberlain. 

HENRY HOOPER WILTON, Esq. Town Clerk. 

CHARLES WEAVER, Esq. Sword Bearer. 

TWELVE ALDERMEN. 
From this number, one is chosen yearly to serve the office of Mayor. 

TWENTY-FOUR COMMON COUNCIL. 
The late Mayor serves the office of Coroner, 



Newspaper.—- Gloucester Journal, by D. Walker and Sons, 
published on Saturday Mornings. 

Markets. — Wednesdays and Saturdays. 

Market for Live Stock.— First Monday in each Month. 

Fairs.— April 5th; July 5th; Sept. 28th; Nov. 28th. 



242 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

POST OFFICE. 

jLccount of the Days and Hours of the Post going out of and coining 
into, the City of Gloucester, according to the latest Regulation. 

Goes out every day, except Saturday, at a quarter to six o'clock in 
the afternoon, for the following places : — London, Aylesbury, Buck- 
ingham, Fenny Stratford, and Stoney Stratford, in Buckinghamshire ; 
Alton, Andover, Aylesford, Basingstoke, Odiham, and Whitchurch, 
in Hampshire ; the Counties of Bedford, Cambridge, Essex, Hert- 
ford, Huntingdon, Lincoln, Northampton, Norfolk, Rutland, 
Surrey, Sussex, and' Suffolk ; — and Arrives every day, except Mon- 
day, at half-past eight in the morning. 

Goes out every day at a quarter before six in the afternoon, for 
Cheltenham, Northleach, Burford, Witney, Oxford, Abingdon, 
Beaconsfield, Cricklade, Colnbrook, Farringdon, Highworth, Hen- 
ley, Flounslow, Maidenhead, Marlow, Nettlebed, Swindon, Ox- 
bridge, Wantage, Windsor, Wotton Basset, Wyconib ; — and Arrives 
every day at half-past eight in the morning. The Letters for the 
above Towns, &c. must be put into the Office by Five o'clock. 

Goes out every day, at six in the morning, for Cheltenham, Pains- 
wick, Stroud, Mincbinhampton, Cirencester, Fairford, Lechlade, 
Sodbury ;— *and Arrives every day at five in the afternoon. 

Goes out every day, at nine in the morning, for Ross, Monmouth? 
Usk, Abergavenny, Hereford, Hay, Brecon, Llandovery, Cardigan- 
shire, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire ; Newnham, Chepstow, 
Newent ; and the southern parts of Ireland, by Packet, the way of 
Waterford; — and Arrives every day, at four in the afternoon. 

Goes out every Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday, at one at noon* 
for Ledbury ; and Arrives on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 
at twelve at noon. 

Goes out every night, at ten, for Dursley, Wotton-under-Edge, 
Bristol, Bath, Hungerford, Reading, Newbury, Tetbury. — Over 
the New Passage : Newport, Cardiff, Caerleon, Merthyr Tidvil, 
Swansea, Pontypool.— Hampshire and Wiltshire (with the exception 
of the Towns before stated), and all the West of England ; Guern- 
sey, Jersey, and the Isle of Wight. — Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Birming- 
ham, Bromyard, Campden, Hinckley, Holyhead, Isle of Man, 
Leominster, Moreton in Marsh, North W T aies, Stow, Tewkesbury, 
Winchcomb, Dublin, and the northern parts of Ireland, Edinburgh, 
and all Scotland.— Counties of Worcester, Y/arwick, Salop, Stafford, 
Derby, Chester, Leicester, York, Cumberland, Westmoreland, Not- 
tingham, Northumberland, Durham, Radnor; and Arrives every 
morning at eight. 

LIST OF MAILS AND LIGHT POST COACHES. 

FROM THE BELL OFFICE, SOUTHGATE-STREET. 

Mail to Birmingham, through Worcester, every night at twelve 
o'clock; to Bristol, midnight, atone; to Cheltenham, every morning 

at nine, 



APPENDIX. 243 

Mail to Cheltenham, every morning at eight. 

A Coach to Birmingham, through Tewkesbury and Worcester, 
every morning at eleven and twelve. 

A Coach to Shrewsbury, through Worcester, Mondays, Wednes- 
days, and Fridays, at two in the afternoon. 

A Coach to Bath every day, except Sunday, at two. 

A Coach to Bath, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, 
through Stroud, at ten. 

A Coach to Bath, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings, at 
twelve. 

A Coach to Bristol every day, except Sunday, at half-past two, 

FROM HEATH'S OFFICE, SOUTHGATE-STREET. 

The London Royal Mail every afternoon at a quarter before six. 

Carmarthen Royal Mail every morning at half-past nine. 

Milford Royal Mail every morning at half-past nine. 

Tenby and Pembroke every morning at five and eleven. 

Carmarthen Post Coach every morning, Sunday excepted, at five. 

Cheltenham Coaches, seven in the morning, and at two and half- 
past four in the afternoon. 

London Post Coach every afternoon at two. 

London Day Coach, every morning, at seven. 

Oxford Post Coach every afternoon at two. 

Hereford Post Coaches every morning at five, and at three in the 
afternoon. 

FROM THE BOOTH-HALL OFFICE. 

London Day Coach (the Regulator) through Cheltenham raid 
Oxford, every morning at a quarter before six, to the White Horse 
Cellar, Piccadilly, Brown's Gloucester Warehouse, and Bolt-in- Tun, 
Fleet-street, London, by eight the same evening ; leaves London 
every morning at six, and arrives in Gloucester by eight the same 
evening. 

Carmarthen Day Coach (Regulator) every morning, except Sun- 
day, at a quarter before five, through Ross, Monmouth, Abergavenny, 
Brecon, Llandovery, and Llandilo, to the White Lion and Bush Inns, 
Carmarthen, early same evening ; returns every morning at five, and 
arrives in Gloucester by nine. 

Tenby and Pembroke Post Coach, Tuesday, Thursday, and Satur- 
day mornings, at a quarter before five. 

Shrewsbury Post Coach every afternoon, except Sunday, at three 
o'clock, through Hereford, Leominster, and Ludlow, to the Lion Inn, 
Shrewsbury ; where it meets the Holyhead Mail and Day Coaches. 

Hereford Post Coach, through Newent, every afternoon, at three 
o'clock, to the Hotel, Hereford, by eight ; returns every morning at 
five, and arrives in Gloucester by nine, where it meets Coaches to 
Bath and Bristol, also to Cheltenham, Oxford, &c. 

Bath Post Coach, through Rodborough, every morning, except 
Sunday, at ten, to the York House, Bath, by half-past three ; returns 
from thence every morning at nine, and arrives in Gloucester at 
half-past two. 



244 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 

Bristol Post Coach (the Phoenix) every morning at nine, Sundays 
excepted, to the White Hart, Broad-street, where it arrives at half- 
past two. 

Bristol Post Coach (the Wellington) every day at three, to the 
White Lion and Bush Coach Offices. 

Birmingham Post Coach (the Wellington) through Tewkesbury 
and Worcester, every morning at half-past eleven, to the Castle and 
Saracen's Head Inns, Birmingham. 

Liverpool Post Coach every morning at half-past eleven, to the 
Saracen's Head Inn, Dale-street, Liverpool. 

Swansea Post Coach, through Newnham, Chepstow, Newport, 
Cardiff, and Cowbridge, every morning at nine, to the Mackworth 
Arms Inn, Swansea. 

Cheltenham Coaches every morning at half-past five and nine, and 
every afternoon at two and half-past two, to the Plough, Royal, and 
George Hotels. 

FROM THE KING'S HEAD OFFICE. 

The Retaliator, to London, every morning at seven o'clock, and 
returns every evening at eight. 

Coaches to Bristol, Birmingham, Cheltenham, &c. &c. 

FROM THE RAM INN, SOUTHGATE-STREET. 

A Coach to Bath every day, except Sunday, at half-past ten in 
the morning ; returns from Bath every day at half-past two. 

A Coach to London every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, at 
two ; and every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday, at three ; through 
Stonehouse, Cainscross, Stroud, Brimscomb Port, Chalford, Ciren- 
cester, and Abingdon. 

A Coach to Leicester every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday 
morning, at ten, through Cheltenham, Evesham, Leamington, 
Warwick, and Coventry. 

A Coach to Bristol every day at three o'clock ; and every Monday, 
Wednesday, and Friday, at twelve. 

A Coach to Cheltenham every morning at nine, and at half-past 
ten ; Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings, at half-past ten. 

A Coach to Birmingham (from Bristol through Newport) leaves 
Gloucester every day at one, through Cheltenham, Tewkesbury, 
Worcester, Birmingham, and Manchester. 

A Coach (the True Briton) through Hounslow, Maidenhead, 
Henley, Abingdon, Farringdon, Lechlade, Fairford, Cirencester, 
Chalford, Brimscomb Port, Stroudwater, Caincross, Ebley, and 
Stonehouse ; also to Nailsworth, Uley, Dursley, and Wotton-under- 
Edge ; leaves Gloucester every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, at 
half-past one in the afternoon, and arrives at the Angel Inn, Angel- 
street, St. Martin's-le- Grand, London, at nine the following morn- 
ings ; and will return every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday after- 
noon at four, and arrive at Gloucester the following mornings at 
eleven. 



APPENDIX. 245 

CARRIERS. 

Ashmore's, J. and W., Birmingham and Bristol Fly Waggon 
Office, Quay-street, (C. Parker, Agent,) whence goods are carried 
to Worcester, Warwick, Stafford, Leicester, Derby, Manchester, 
Preston, Lancaster, and all parts of the North of England, Scotland, 
and Ireland ; also through Somersetshire, Dorsetshire, Devonshire, 
and Cornwall, every day. 

By Howes, Gabb, and Shurmer, Quay-street, goods are forwarded 
to all parts of the kingdom. 

Dobbins, John, to Cheltenham every day, from St. Mary's square. 

J. Page's Waggons load at his Warehouse, Quay-street, for Ciren- 
cester, and all parts of Berks, Wilts, and London, every Saturday ; 
Tuesday and Thursday evenings for Ross ; South Wales every Mon- 
day and Thursday ; Ledbury and Hereford every Monday. 

Plaisted, Thomas, to Cheltenham, daily, Westgate-street. 

Tanner and Baylis's London and Gloucestershire Fly Waggons, 
Bear-land, from their Warehouses, Gloucester, and Winchcomb-str.. 
Cheltenham, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday ; arrive at the 
Saracen's Head, Friday-street, London, every Tuesday, Thursday, 
and Saturday ; and return the following mornings for Gloucester 
and Cheltenham, where they arrive every Monday, Wednesday, and 
Friday. — J. Troke's Waggon, from T. and B.'s Warehouse, Glou- 
cester, to Herefordshire, and G. North's, to Monmouthshire and 
South Wales, twice a week each. 

T. and B.'s London Fly Waggons, from Rodborough every 
morning and evening at seven o'clock, and from Cirencester at 12 
(noon and night) ; arrive in London in two days ; start from their 
Warehouse, Grub-street, and Saracen's Plead, Friday-street, London, 
each place, daily, and arrive in Gloucestershire ia two days. 

T. and B.'s Bristol Waggons load four times a week, at the Bell 
Inn, Thomas-street, Bristol, and convey goods to Gloucester, Chel- 
tenham, and all parts of the county. — Waggons to and from Glou- 
cester, Cheltenham, and throughout the manufacturing districts, 
three times a week. — Goods forwarded to all parts of England, Scot- 
land, Wales, or Ireland. 

T. and B., Bear-land, to Bath, and all parts of the West of Eng- 
land, every day at noon ; Taunton, Exeter. Plymouth, Falmouth, 
Devon, and Cornwall, every morning ; SouthraGlton and Barnstaple, 
every Thursday morning ; Warminster, Salisbury, Southampton, 
Gosport, Portsmouth, and Isle of Wight, every Monday, Tuesday, 
Thursday, and Friday morning ; Bridport, Beaminster, Crewkerne, 
Charmouth, and Hasselborough, every W ednesday morning ; Wells, 
every Tuesday and Friday morning ; Bridgwater, every morning. 

Tanner and Baylis have waggons regularly three times a week 
their Warehouses, Bear-land, Gloucester, and Winchcomb- 
str 2 et, Cheltenham, through Rodborough; to Bristol direct. 

Goods shipped by H. Wood, of the Bell-yard, Thomas-street, 
Bristol, every week, for Chepstow, Newport, Caerleon, Cardiff, 
Swansea, and all parts of South Wales, or forwarded by any convey- 
ance as directed. 

L-2 



246 HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER, 

CONVEYANCE BY WATER. 

From William Kendall and Son's Wharf,— from J. D. Walker's 
Wharf, — from Charles Parker's Wharf, — and from George Ames's 
Wharf, goods are forwarded to all parts of the kingdom. 



LIST OF FAIRS.— GLOUCESTERSHIRE. 



Berkeley, (W.) May 14. 

Bisley, (Th.) May 4, Nov. 12. 

Blakeney, ( W.) May 12, Nov. 12. 

Cambridge, first Tuesday in Oct. 

Campden, ( W. ) Ash- Wednesday. 
April 23, Aug. 5, Dec. 10. 

Cirencester, (M. and F.) Easter- 
Tuesday, July 18, 1st Monday 
in Aug. 1st Monday in Sept. 
1st Mon. in Oct. Nov. 8 ; Sta- 
tute or Mop, Mon. before and 
after old Michaelmas day. 

Cheltenham, (Th.) 2d. Th. April, 
Holy Thurs. Aug. 5, 2d Th. in 
Sept. Dec. 7, 18. 

Coleford, (F.) June 20, Dec. 5. 

Dursley, (Th.) May 6, Dec. 4. 

Fairford,(Th.) May 14, Nov. 12. 

Frampton, April 30. 

GLOUCESTER, (W. and S.) 
Apr. 5, July 5, Sept. 28, 29, 
Nov. 28. 

Hampton, (T.) Trin. Monday, 
Oct. 29. 

Iron- Acton, April 25, Sept. 13. 

Lechlade, (T.) Aug.5,21, Sept.9. 

Leonard- Stanley, (S.) July 20. 

Lidney, (W.) May 4, Nov. 8. 

Little-Dean, Whit-Mon.Nov.26. 

Marshfield, (T.) May 24, Oct. 24. 

Mitcheldean, (M.) Easter- Mon. 
Oct. 10. 

Moreton, (T.) April 5, Nov. 1. 



Newnham, (F.) June 11, Oct. 18. 
Newent, (F.) Wed. bef. Easter, 

Wed. before Whitsuntide, Aug. 

13, Friday after Sept. 18. 
Northleach, (W.) Wed. bef. May 

4, last Wed. in May, 1st Wed. 

in Sept. & Wed. before Oct. 10. 
Painswick,(Th.)Wh.Tu. Sep. 19. 
Sodbury, (Th.) May 23, June 24. 
Stonehouse, May 1, Oct. 1 l,No. 10. 
Stow-on-the-Wold, (Th.) March 

29, May 12, July 24, Oct. 24. 
Stroud, (F.) May 12, Aug. 21. 
Tetbury, (W.) Ash- Wed. Wed. 

bef. and aft. April 5, July 22. 
Tewkesbury, (W. and S.) second 

Mon. in March, 1st. Wed. in 

April, May 14, June 22, Sept. 

4, Oct. 10, Wed. bef. and after 

do. a statute, and 1st Wed. Dec. 
Thornbury, ( S. ) Easter- Monday, 

Aug. 15, Mon. before Dec. 21. 
Tockington, May 9, Dec. 6. 
Westerleigh, Sept. 19. 
Wickwar, (M.) April 5, June 2. 
Winchcomb, (S.) the last Sat. in 

March, May 6, July 28. 
Winterbourn, June 29, Oct. 18. 
Wotton-under-Edge, (F.) Sept. 

25. 
Westbury-upon- Severn, Thur. in 

Whitsun-week, Friday befsre 

old Michaelmas day. 



Great Market at Coleford, the Friday before the 30th Aug. 



APPENDIX. 247 

ROUTES IN THE DIRECTION FROM GLOUCESTER, 



r right, I, left, m. market-town. 



TO LONDON. 



MILES. 

1 Wotton. On the r a seat of 
W. Goodrich, Esq. ; on the I 
late Colonel Hopkinson. 

9 m Cheltenham. A neat town, 
and much frequented for its 
medicinal springs. To the r 
Lord Falcornberg's house, 
where the King once resided. 

12 Dowdeswell. A house lateE. 
Rogers, Esq. ; on the r is a 
seat of W. Hunt Prynne, 
Esq. at Charlton- Kings. 

15 Frogmill Inn. On the I 
Sandywell Park, late Mrs. 
Tracy. 

22 m Northleach. The Roman 
Foss runs through this place. 
Church ancient and hand- 
some. On the I is Farming- 
ton. Rev. E. Waller. Pass 
Stowell Park, T. Penrice, 
Esq. 

26^ Barrington. Seat to the I 
Rev. Mr. Price. 

SI m Burford, Oxfordshire : no- 
ted for making saddles. 

3S| m Witney, noted for making 
rugs and blankets. 

42 Eynsham. 

48 Botley. 

49 m Oxford. Celebrated Uni- 
versity. 

52£ Littlemore. 

55 Nuneham. Lord Harcourt. 

58£ Dorchester. Small town. 

60 Shillingford. 

61h Benson. Three miles to the 

I Brightwell House, W. L. 

Stone, Esq. 
63 Beggar's Bush. 
65| Nuffield^Heath. Beyond is 

Gould's Heath. G. Davis, 

Esq. 
67 Nettlebed. On the I Joyce 



MILES. 

Grove, T. Tovey, Esq. ; on 
the r a windmill, said to be 
the highest ground south of 
the Trent. At a distance to 
the I Wallington Park, Mrs. 
Tilson. 

69^ Bix. 

71f m Henley-upon- Thames. On 
the I Badgmoor, J. Crote,Esq. 

lo\ Harley Bottom. On the r 
Temple Mills, one of the 
largest copper mills in Eng- 
land. On the I Park- Place. 

79£ Golden Fleece. On the r, 
near the banks of the Thames, 
Bisham Abbey, G. Vansit- 
tart, Esq. 

80 m Maidenhead, Berkshire. 
Between the bridge and town 
on the r Sir Isaac Pocock. 
On the I in the town, G. 
Powncy, Esq. Bridge. 

85 SalthiU. On the r Windsor 
Castle. Eton Coll. Cran- 
bourn Lodge, Duke of Glou- 
cester. 

Slough. On the I formerly 
lived Dr. Herschel. 

86^ Tetsworth Water. 

88| m Colnbrook, Buckingham- 
shire. On the r Riching's 
Park, Rt. Hon. J. Sullivan. 

90| Longford. 

93| Cranford Bridge. On the r 
Cranford Park. 

97| mHounslow. 

100^ m Brentford. At the end of 
the town, on the other side of 
the Thames, Kew Palace. 
Beyond on the I Sion House, 
Duke of Northumberland. 
On the r Sion Hill, Duke of 
Marlborough. A mile for- 
ward, Osterley Park, Earl of 
Jersev. 



248 



HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



MILES. 

101 Turnham Green. 

102^ Hammersmith. 

104 Kensington, Middlesex. 

1 05*Knightsbridge. 

106 m London. 



TO 



49 

55^ 

en 

73* 



76 
77 
8*| 

85 

86* 

90 

91* 

92* 

95± 

97i 
100 
101i 
103 
105 
107 



LONDON THROUGH 
WYCOMBE. 



m Oxford. 

Wheatly. A great many 

seats around it. 

Wheatly Bridge. 

Tetsworth. On Z Thame 

Park, Miss Wickham. 

Stoken Church, Oxon. 

West Wycombe. Lord De 

Spencer, Sir John Dash wood 

King, Bart. On the Z Rev. 

Mr. Levett. 

m High Wycombe. On the 

r Marquis of Lansdown. 

Wycombe Marsh. 

Loudwater. 

m Beaconsfield. On the r 

Gregories, late Mr. Burke. 

Gerrard's Cross. Balstrode, 

Duke of Somerset. 

Taddlingend, Bucks. 

m Uxbridge. M 

Lillington. 

Hayes. 

Southall. On the 

R. Seymour. 

Ealing. 

Acton. 

Shepherd's Bush. 

Kensington Gravel Pits. 

Tyburn. 

m London. 



TO CIRENCESTER AND 
LONDON. 

4 Brockworth. 

5 Witcomb. On the r Sir W. 
Hicks. 

6 Top of Birdlip Hill. 



MILES. 

Along a Roman FossWay to 

15 m Cirencester. 

17 On the r Lord Bathurst's 
house and woods. On the 
I in the town, the Abbey, 
Thomas Masters, esq. 

20* Eastington. 

22~ Poulton, Wiltshire. 

25* m Fairford : famous for the 
painted glass in the church. 
J. R. Barker, Esq. and on 
the r going out of the town, 
C. T. Morgan, Esq. 

29 m Lechlade, Gloucestershire 
W. Fox, Esq. 

SO St. John's Bridge. 

31 Buscot. On the r Buscot 
Park, E. L. Loveden, Esq. 

So m Faringdon. Faringdon 
House, — Bennet, Esq. 

39§ Kingston Inn. On the r 
Wm. Bland, Esq. 

41 Fifield. 

42 J Tubney Warren. On the Z 

— Lockart, Esq. 
46* Abingdon, Berkshire. 
47j Cullum Bridge. 
50* Clifton. 
51* Buscot. On the r J. E. 

Tawney, Esq. 
53 Dorchester. 
103 m London. 



Lord GLOUCESTER TO BATH. 



3 Quedgley. To the r seat of 

W. Hay ward, Esq. 
5 Hardwick. To the r Hard- 
wick Court, J. L. Bakei\ 

Esq. 
7* Whitminster. Cross the 

Canal leading to Stroud and 

London. 
11 Frocester. Steep Hill. 
12* Nympsfield. On the Z Lord 

Ducie. 
16* Coldharbour. On the Z R. 

Kingscote, Esq. 
25 Petty France. On the Z is 

Badmington, the seat of the 

Duke of Beaufort. 



APPENDIX. 



249 



MILES. 

27J Crosshands Inn. On the r 
Doddington Park, Sir B. C. 
Codrington, Bart. 

30i Tolldown House. 

35^ LansdownMonument, erec- 
ted to the memory of Sir 
Bevil Granville, killed here 
in a battle fought with the 
Parliament Army in the 
time of Charles I. On the 
I T. Whittington, Esq. 

39i m Bath. 



BATH by RODBOROUGH. 

4^ To Cross Hands at Hard- 
wick, turn to the Z. 
6£ Standish Church. 
8£ Stonehouse. 
10 Cain's Cross. 
12£ Rodborough. On the Z Sir 
Ones. Paul, Bart. 

14 Inchbrook. On the r Pud- 
hill House, J. Wade, Esq. ; 
and Spring Park, Lord 
Ducie. On the Z — Peach, 
Esq. Dunkirk House. 

15 Nailsworth. 

16^ Horsley. On the r E. Wil- 
braham, Esq. 

m Tipput's Inn. On the Z 
Chavenage House, H. Wil- 
lis, Esq. 

18^ Kingscote. 

38l m Bath. 



HEREFORD THROUGH 
ROSS. 

2 Highnam. Highnam 
House, Sir B. W. Guise, 
M.P. 

4 Churcham. 

6 Birdwood. 

7 Huntley. 

11^ Lea. Castle End. Arch- 
deacon Probyn. 
14 Weston, Herefordshire. F. 



MILES. 

Lawson, Esq. ; John Hard- 
wick, Esq. ; T.Nixon, Esq.; 
J. Swayne, Esq. 

16 m Ross, situate on the Wve. 
John Kyrel, " The Man of 

Ross," built the spire. 

Nourse, Esq. 

17 Wilton. Ruins of a Castle 
to the r. 

2-i£ Harewood-end Inn. On 

the r Sir R. Hoskyns, Bart, 
2;H Landenabo. On Z Broomy 

Close, J. Woodward, Esq. 
27£ Great Birch. On the Z 

Bringwyn, Mrs. Phillips ; 

and the Meend, T. Sim- 

monds, Esq. 
29 Cross-in- Hand. 
29| Callow. On the Z at Ken- 

chester, the site of a Roman 

station. 
33^ m Hereford. New Inn. 

City Arms Hotel. 



TO WORCESTER THRO' 
TEWKESBURY. 

1 Longford. Rev. J. Ches- 

ton on the Z. 
2% Twigworth. 
5 Norton. Church on the 

hill to the Z. 
11 m Tewkesbury. Borough 

town. Elegant Church. 

Stocking manufactory. On 

the r, at the Mythe, R. 

Jackson, Esq. Here the 

Avon falls into the Severn. 

Swan, Hop- Pole, Star and 

Garter. 
13% Twining. Here is a spring 

said to be famous for leprosy. 
14^ Shire Stone and Bridge, 

Worcestershire. 
\Uy 2 Ripple. 
1 19 Severn Stoke. On the r 

Dr. Evans. 
l 20y 2 Clifton. 

22% Kempsey. On the r Capt. 
I Baker. 



250 



HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



ra Worcester. Ancient Ca- 
thedral. King John buried 
in the choir. Flight and 
Barr's fine China Manufac- 
tory. 



TO BRISTOL. 

7% Whitminster. 

10% Cambridge Inn.' 

16 ■ Newport. On ther Berke- 
leyCastle, Col. Berkeley. 

17% Stone. 

18% Falfield. 

24 Alve^ton. 

25% Rugway. On the r Tock- 
ington, P. Peach, Esq. 

26% Almondsbury. On the r 
Knoll, S. Worrall, Esq. 

SO Filton. On the I — Barns- 
ley, Esq. 

32% Horfield. 

34 ra Bristol. Bush, White 
Lion, White Hart, Grey- 
hound, &c. 



GLOUCESTER TO SWAN- 
SEA, THRO' CHEPSTOW. 



1 3 Over. 

6 Highnam. On the r High- 
Ram Court. 

2 Minsterworth. 
4 4 Westbury. 

1 6 Broad Oak. 
lira Newnham. On the r 
Hay Hill. 

3 Blakeney. 

4 4 Aylburton. On the r Lyd- 

ney Park, Right Hon. C. 
B. Bathurst. 

1 Alveston. 

1 Woolaston. 

4 Tiddenham. Cross the 
Wye. On the r — Wil- 
liams, Esq. 



1 4 ra Chepstow. On the r 
Piercefield, the seat of N. 
Wells, Esq. 

3 4 St. Pierre. 

1 Crick. Crick House, Major 
M'Bean. 
i Caerwent. 

4 Penhowe. On the r Went- 
wood Lodge, Duke of Beau- 
fort. 

1 6 Cat's Ash. On the Z Llan- 
warren, Sir R. Salusbury, bt. 

3 2 Christ Church. Cross the 
Usk. 

2 5 ra Newport. Cross the 
Monmouth Canal, the Iron 
Railway, and further the 
Ebbw. Two miles and a 
half from Newport, on the I 
is Tredegar, Sir C. Morgan, 
Bart. 

4 Castle Town. 

St. Melton's. On the r 
Ruppera House, Mor- 
gan, Esq. On the r Cefn 
Mabley, J. K. Tynte, Esq. 
1 4 Rumney. Cross the river. 

1 4 ra Cardiff. Assizesheld here. 

Cross the Taaff Z, on r Llan- 
daff Court. 

2 2 Ely Bridge. Cross the Ely. 
4 St. Nicholas. On the Z Dyf- 

frin-house, Hon. B. Grey. 
1 6 Bonvilston. On the Z Llan- 
trythid Park, Sir J. Aubrey, 
Bart. 

4 4 ra Cowbridge. OntherPen- 

llyne Castle, Miss Gwinnett. 

3 5 Crack. 

1 5 Corntown. 

1 Ewenny. Cross the Ewen- 
ny and Ogmore. On the r 
remains of a Priory. 

1 New Inn. 

5 4 I'yle. 

1 5 Margam. On the r Margam 
Park, — Talbot, Esq. 

3 5 Taybaek. 

1 1 Aberabon. Cross the Avon. 

1 6 Bagland. On the r Bag- 
land Hall, — — Jones, Esq. 



AI'i'EXDIX, 



251 



1 2 Briton Ferry. On the r 

Lord Vernon's seat. 

2 7 m Neath. Cross the 2% eath 

and Ciytha Copper-works 
and Iron-forges. Coal-pits. 

1 1 Day. On the r Court Her- 

bert. 

2 m Llansmalet. Cross the 

Tawe. 
1 6 Morriston. Cross the Swan- 
sea Canal three times. 

3 m Swansea. Cold and hot 

sea-water Baths, Pottery, 
Iron-found. Copper-houses 



TO MILFORD HAVEN. 4 



16 m Ross. 
8 5 Pencraig. 

1 1 Goodrich. On the I W. 
Fosketc, Esq. and remains 
of its ancient Castle. 

4 Old Ford, Cross the river 

Luke. 

1 1 Whitchurch. W. Grove, 

Esq. and Col. Molyneux. 

2 2 L 

1 m Monmouth. Assizes held 

here. Henry V. born in 
this place. Half a mile on 
I Troy House. Duke of 
Beaufort. 

2 Winastow. 
2 7 Tregare. 

1 7 Bryngwyn. On r Llanarth 

Court, J. Jones, Esq. 
4 2 Llangattock. On the r 
Llangattock House, Rev. 
M. Lucas. 

2 2 Colebrook Park. On the I 

Penpergwyn House, Rev. 
J. Lewis ; and further I 
Llanover House, B. Wad- 
dington, Esq. 
1 6 in Abergavenny. On the r 
Colebrook House, J. Wil- 
liams, Esq. Dwrwyn Cot- 
tage, Mrs. Middleton. 

1 4 Pentre. 

2 6 Llangv, ryney. On the r 



Sunny Bank- C. Cracroft, 
Esq. On I Dan-y- Craig, 
J. \Vood, Esq. 

1 7 m Crickhoweil. On /Llan- 
gattock Place, H. Williams, 
Esq. On the r Gwernvale, 
J. G wynne. Esq, 

1 7 Pontybrynest. On the r 
Tretower, ruins of an anci- 
ent castle. 

1 4 Skethrag. On the r Ske- 
thrag House, J. Jones, Esq. 

1 3 Llanhamlaek, On the / 

Peterston Court, T. H. 

Powell, Esq. 
3 2 m Brecon. Town Hall. 

Assizes held here. 

Saint David's. Cross the 

Arrow. 
6 Lladspdderi. 
6 Penpont. 
3 Rhydbrue. On the I De- 

rynnock, Rev. H. Payne. 

Cross the Usk to 

3 Trecastle. 

4 Velindre, Carmarthenshire. 
6 m Llandovery. Handsome 

stone bridge over the Towey. 
ancient Castle, several Leats. 
3 3 Blanenose. OntherLlvwn- 
y-Brain Hall, Mrs. Rice. 
Llanwrda. 

Abermarles. On the r R. 
R. Folev, Esq. 
Cledvultch. 
Rosmaen. 

m Llandilo Vawr, On the 
r Dynevor Castle, Lord D. 
On the I Golden Grove, 
Lord Cawdor. 

2 4 Rhewnader. On the I Ber- 

land-y-well, R. J. Llwyd, 
Esq. & Aberglasney, Capt. 
Dver. 
3 Cross Hill. OntheZGron- 
gar Hill. 

3 4 Cothy Bridge. 
1 7 Alitygog. 

1 5 Aberwite. On the / Palace 
of Bishop of St. David's ; 
and Clestandy, R. Thomas 1 , 
Esq. On the r Castle Pig- 
gin. 



3 


6 


1 


1 


3 


2 


1 


5 


1 


2 



9:i9 



HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. 



1 7 m Carmarthen. A corpo- 
rate town, assizes held here, 
iron and tin mills, smelting 
houses, &c. 

1 3 Stony Bridge. Over the r 

Cowin. 

2 Tavernplwcketh. On the r 

Wernafit House, Wil- 
liams, Esq. 
8 5 Pool-y- Gravel. Cross the 
Abercwim & the Cliveham. 

1 7 Llanvihangel. Abercwim. 

Cross the Abercwim and 
Tave. 

2 5 Llandowror. 
5 Tavernspite. 

3 7 Cold Blow. 

1 6 m Narbeth. Cross the river 

Abercwym to 
1 7 Robbeston Wathen. On r 

Sodston House, — - James, 

Esa. 



1 1 Caniston Bridge. Over the 

East Cleddy, r Ridgway, J. 

H. Foley, Esq. and 

Llawhaden House, Francis 
Skyrme, Esq. 

2 3 Midcounty. 

1 3 Arnold's Hill. On the I 
Slebeck Hall, and Wiston, 
seat of Lord Cawdor. 

6 Deeplake. 

1 7 Scurry Hill. Pass the river 

Milford, and, beyond, the 
West Cleddy, and enter 

1 2 m Haverfordwest. A cor- 

porate town. 

3 6 Merlin's Bridge. Over the 
Cheddy. Two miles on r 
seat of Wright, Esq. 

3 Johnston. On the I Lord 
Kensington. 

2 Stainton. On the I Har- 

meston, D, Hughes, Esq. 
1 4 m Milford Haven. 



THE END. 



W. Bulgin, Printer, Corn- Street, Bristol. 






